<![CDATA[River Murray Recovery Stories]]>fe89dbb4-3b79-5d40-9825-09c2bb5b2b04Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:30:24 +0000Captivate.fmKintsugi Heroeshttps://artwork.captivate.fm/01954b09-c991-4e97-9df7-69a398d0936a/9yJkSGs0CT3EzeRMngbq_e2Z.pngRiver Murray Recovery StoriesKintsugi HeroesKintsugi HeroesThe 2022 River Murray floods in South Australia were caused by record water inflows from the Murray-Darling Basin due to heavy upstream rainfall. The slowly rising floodwaters inundated homes, businesses, and farmland, causing widespread displacement, infrastructure damage, and agricultural losses. The disaster significantly impacted local economies, communities, and the region’s long-term recovery. In this special limited series of Kintsugi Heroes, John Milham sits down with members of the Riverlands community and gives them space to share their experiences of their personal adversity and community resilience. It's only through connection and empathy that there can be a path to recovery. These stories of trauma can be confronting. If you find they have a triggering effect, please reach out to someone who can help keep you safe. Now listen in as John takes you to the River Murray Recovery Stories with Kintsugi Heroes.https://riverland-recovery-stories.captivate.fmfalseepisodicnopodcastThriving through disaster thanks to community support with Mark Leigh • River Murray Recovery Stories E16Thriving through disaster thanks to community support with Mark Leigh • River Murray Recovery Stories E16Mark grew up visiting the river and eventually moved with his family to the banks of the Murray for a relaxed country lifestyle.  He became part of a small, friendly community where people help each other, and boating is part of everyday life for locals and visitors alike.

Mark’s kids thrived in a tiny school, and the family enjoyed close ties, with local traditions centred around the water and time spent outdoors together.

When the 2022 flood came, Mark watched his home disappear beneath slowly rising water, leaving the area looking like an inland sea.With his house gone, Mark depended on relief centres and friends, moving between hotel rooms and a rental while waiting months for water to go down.

He describes how the neighbourhood worked together cleaning thick mud, stripping homes and sharing help, all while supporting each other through the stress and slow rebuilding.

Mark reflects on loss and change but still values river life, new friendships, and the strong community that pulled together during tough times.

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We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Mark grew up visiting the river and eventually moved with his family to the banks of the Murray for a relaxed country lifestyle.  He became part of a small, friendly community where people help each other, and boating is part of everyday life for locals and visitors alike.

Mark’s kids thrived in a tiny school, and the family enjoyed close ties, with local traditions centred around the water and time spent outdoors together.

When the 2022 flood came, Mark watched his home disappear beneath slowly rising water, leaving the area looking like an inland sea.With his house gone, Mark depended on relief centres and friends, moving between hotel rooms and a rental while waiting months for water to go down.

He describes how the neighbourhood worked together cleaning thick mud, stripping homes and sharing help, all while supporting each other through the stress and slow rebuilding.

Mark reflects on loss and change but still values river life, new friendships, and the strong community that pulled together during tough times.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>096b9d63-04ab-4695-b0fc-47cbd54efbd4Mon, 21 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +100044:22falsefull1616Kintsugi HeroesBuilding a home on the Murray River with Adele Johnson • River Murray Recovery Stories E15Building a home on the Murray River with Adele Johnson • River Murray Recovery Stories E15As a child, Adele visited the Pyatt river settlement with family friends, creating lasting memories of carefree days spent exploring the land and water, deeply connecting to the Murray River.

In 2015, Adele and her family purchased the property, transforming it into their home. Embracing the rural lifestyle, she balanced work as a baker with life on the riverbank.

Adele and her partner Justin joined the vibrant local community, raising their children alongside other families. They built strong ties through mutual support and shared experiences along the Murray.

When the 2022 floods arrived, Adele drew on local knowledge and teamwork. Her family carefully prepared, adapting to the changing conditions as floodwaters steadily encroached, relying on resilience and practical solutions.

Today, Adele reflects on the challenges and beauty of river life—raising children, enjoying peaceful moments, and appreciating the support of her community as they move forward after the waters receded.


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We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>As a child, Adele visited the Pyatt river settlement with family friends, creating lasting memories of carefree days spent exploring the land and water, deeply connecting to the Murray River.

In 2015, Adele and her family purchased the property, transforming it into their home. Embracing the rural lifestyle, she balanced work as a baker with life on the riverbank.

Adele and her partner Justin joined the vibrant local community, raising their children alongside other families. They built strong ties through mutual support and shared experiences along the Murray.

When the 2022 floods arrived, Adele drew on local knowledge and teamwork. Her family carefully prepared, adapting to the changing conditions as floodwaters steadily encroached, relying on resilience and practical solutions.

Today, Adele reflects on the challenges and beauty of river life—raising children, enjoying peaceful moments, and appreciating the support of her community as they move forward after the waters receded.


------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>873a7520-265b-4008-8796-4a1e561bf0d3Mon, 14 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +100040:07falsefull1515Kintsugi HeroesConveying calm communications amid rising waters with Stephanie Brookes • River Murray Recovery Stories E14Conveying calm communications amid rising waters with Stephanie Brookes • River Murray Recovery Stories E14Stephanie grew up in Dublin, Ireland, where she explored her interest in consumer behaviour and marketing. She studied wine and its emotional connections, learning the importance of storytelling in people’s lives.

She moved to the Riverland in 2012 and fell in love with the region especially the River Murray. She is married to a local wine maker with two beautiful children and one on the way. 

Since 2013, Stephanie has worked with the Renmark Paringa Council. Her job focuses on communications, marketing and community engagement, helping to share stories and reliable information with residents and stakeholders.

When the 2022-23 floods arrived, Stephanie joined the emergency incident management team. She managed communication, supported by her team, working long days to ensure everyone stayed informed and reassured.

Her role during the River Murray Flood 2022/23, on the Emergency Incident Management Team, was to ensure all stakeholders were informed on Renmark Paringa Council's response to the impeding flood waters and ensure that that the community remained confident of the levee network during that time. 

Professionally and personally, she was engulfed by the Flood, so felt able to prepare communication resources for the community which made sense to her as a community member and therefore ensured that the Council was trusted source of information during that time. She shared facts clearly and made sure people understood both risks and progress, helping reduce fear and build trust during a difficult time. 

She is proud of how the community came together, and values the teamwork, resilience and belonging that her experience has brought her.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Stephanie grew up in Dublin, Ireland, where she explored her interest in consumer behaviour and marketing. She studied wine and its emotional connections, learning the importance of storytelling in people’s lives.

She moved to the Riverland in 2012 and fell in love with the region especially the River Murray. She is married to a local wine maker with two beautiful children and one on the way. 

Since 2013, Stephanie has worked with the Renmark Paringa Council. Her job focuses on communications, marketing and community engagement, helping to share stories and reliable information with residents and stakeholders.

When the 2022-23 floods arrived, Stephanie joined the emergency incident management team. She managed communication, supported by her team, working long days to ensure everyone stayed informed and reassured.

Her role during the River Murray Flood 2022/23, on the Emergency Incident Management Team, was to ensure all stakeholders were informed on Renmark Paringa Council's response to the impeding flood waters and ensure that that the community remained confident of the levee network during that time. 

Professionally and personally, she was engulfed by the Flood, so felt able to prepare communication resources for the community which made sense to her as a community member and therefore ensured that the Council was trusted source of information during that time. She shared facts clearly and made sure people understood both risks and progress, helping reduce fear and build trust during a difficult time. 

She is proud of how the community came together, and values the teamwork, resilience and belonging that her experience has brought her.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>7eedaca1-d5b3-4059-ac8a-c3da3e90b096Mon, 07 Jul 2025 09:00:00 +100054:53falsefull1414Kintsugi HeroesRebuilding a home and advocating for clearer communication with Graham Radford • River Murray Recovery Stories E13Rebuilding a home and advocating for clearer communication with Graham Radford • River Murray Recovery Stories E13Graham arrived to live on the Murray in 2010 after a life as a multi-generation landowner and farmer elsewhere in the region. He describes rural self-reliance, and both the strengths and challenges of small-town community dynamics during crises.

His first-hand experiences with flood preparation, with the help of his family, what worked, what didn’t (like limited access to sandbags) led to his realisation that community organisation to help people prepare was lacking in the early stages.

Graham expressed his frustration with the lack of clear, timely information before and during the flood, and his call for better documentation and central communication in future emergencies.

He also tells personal stories of loss, uncertainty, and change, including the trauma within the community, as well as unexpected positives like the opportunity to modernise his cottage.

He discusses the mixed aftermath effect on farming and expectations versus reality like the disappointing effect of salt leaching, rather than soil enrichment, after the flood, and the evolving challenges for farmers in the region.

Graham is a passionate advocate for recording lessons learned, so future generations and community leaders can better prepare for and respond to future Murray River floods.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Graham arrived to live on the Murray in 2010 after a life as a multi-generation landowner and farmer elsewhere in the region. He describes rural self-reliance, and both the strengths and challenges of small-town community dynamics during crises.

His first-hand experiences with flood preparation, with the help of his family, what worked, what didn’t (like limited access to sandbags) led to his realisation that community organisation to help people prepare was lacking in the early stages.

Graham expressed his frustration with the lack of clear, timely information before and during the flood, and his call for better documentation and central communication in future emergencies.

He also tells personal stories of loss, uncertainty, and change, including the trauma within the community, as well as unexpected positives like the opportunity to modernise his cottage.

He discusses the mixed aftermath effect on farming and expectations versus reality like the disappointing effect of salt leaching, rather than soil enrichment, after the flood, and the evolving challenges for farmers in the region.

Graham is a passionate advocate for recording lessons learned, so future generations and community leaders can better prepare for and respond to future Murray River floods.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>dc5aaf1e-f68b-49ca-82fd-411d4cef0f00Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +100056:28falsefull1313Kintsugi HeroesBuilding a community workforce with Anthony Winter & Brenton Jinks • River Murray Recovery Stories E12Building a community workforce with Anthony Winter & Brenton Jinks • River Murray Recovery Stories E12Anthony Winter and Brenton Jinks are highly experienced local tradies and community service co-ordinators who have worked for the South Australian Corrections Department for over 16 years. During the 2022-3 Murray River Floods they taught practical trade skills to prisoners, from the safe use of tools to teamwork. They helped participants gain confidence and experience that could support their future employment and rehabilitation.

They led crews in building and assembling flood defence barriers, such as Defence Cell levees working long days in tough conditions. Their local knowledge helped integrate the prisoner work gangs into broader emergency efforts, enabling a more unified response to the flood.

By fostering trust with locals and being approachable leaders, they helped change attitudes about prisoner involvement in public projects. Their personal connections reassured the community, opening doors for wider acceptance and meaningful collaboration.

They ensured jobs were completed to a high standard despite resource constraints and changing priorities throughout the flood response period.

With a focus on skill development, they offered prisoners hands-on training in trades like carpentry, landscaping, and machinery operation. These opportunities provided structure and a sense of achievement, supporting rehabilitation and personal growth.

After the floods, Anthony and Brenton and their team supported recovery efforts by removing debris, repairing local facilities, and supporting the most affected residents.  


------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Anthony Winter and Brenton Jinks are highly experienced local tradies and community service co-ordinators who have worked for the South Australian Corrections Department for over 16 years. During the 2022-3 Murray River Floods they taught practical trade skills to prisoners, from the safe use of tools to teamwork. They helped participants gain confidence and experience that could support their future employment and rehabilitation.

They led crews in building and assembling flood defence barriers, such as Defence Cell levees working long days in tough conditions. Their local knowledge helped integrate the prisoner work gangs into broader emergency efforts, enabling a more unified response to the flood.

By fostering trust with locals and being approachable leaders, they helped change attitudes about prisoner involvement in public projects. Their personal connections reassured the community, opening doors for wider acceptance and meaningful collaboration.

They ensured jobs were completed to a high standard despite resource constraints and changing priorities throughout the flood response period.

With a focus on skill development, they offered prisoners hands-on training in trades like carpentry, landscaping, and machinery operation. These opportunities provided structure and a sense of achievement, supporting rehabilitation and personal growth.

After the floods, Anthony and Brenton and their team supported recovery efforts by removing debris, repairing local facilities, and supporting the most affected residents.  


------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>79eed2bc-b64c-4ad8-81a4-35366ab33111Mon, 23 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +100050:28falsefull1212Kintsugi HeroesServicing the community's needs and planning for the future with David Hassett • River Murray Recovery Stories E11Servicing the community's needs and planning for the future with David Hassett • River Murray Recovery Stories E11David has made the River Murray his home since 1989, forming a deep bond with the land and its dynamic environment.

Over 30 years, David’s involvement in the Mid-Murray region deepened, fuelled by his passion for roads and infrastructure.

Seven years ago, David returned to the Mid-Murray area, bringing his expertise to the council as Director of Infrastructure.

During the 2022 floods, David led the co-ordination of flood defence strategies and infrastructure maintenance for the community. Ensuring effective communication, he rallied his team and worked with local and state agencies to address evolving flood challenges.

David’s efforts extended beyond just logistics, fostering strong relationships with local residents and associations during and after the floods.

Even post-floods, David continues to lead ongoing recovery efforts, pushing for funding, and planning for future resilience in Mid-Murray.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>David has made the River Murray his home since 1989, forming a deep bond with the land and its dynamic environment.

Over 30 years, David’s involvement in the Mid-Murray region deepened, fuelled by his passion for roads and infrastructure.

Seven years ago, David returned to the Mid-Murray area, bringing his expertise to the council as Director of Infrastructure.

During the 2022 floods, David led the co-ordination of flood defence strategies and infrastructure maintenance for the community. Ensuring effective communication, he rallied his team and worked with local and state agencies to address evolving flood challenges.

David’s efforts extended beyond just logistics, fostering strong relationships with local residents and associations during and after the floods.

Even post-floods, David continues to lead ongoing recovery efforts, pushing for funding, and planning for future resilience in Mid-Murray.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>f578aa76-bdde-40a4-a020-359f4c1b877fMon, 16 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +100054:14falsefull1111Kintsugi HeroesOvercoming trauma and mental health impacts after natural disaster with Rob Gordon • River Murray Recovery StoriesE10Overcoming trauma and mental health impacts after natural disaster with Rob Gordon • River Murray Recovery StoriesE10Dr Rob Gordon is a psychotherapist who specialises in trauma caused by natural and other disasters. He has been a consultant to the Victorian government and the Red Cross for disasters since 1989. 

In this podcast, Rob gives us a powerful and detailed explanation of the effects trauma resulting from disasters and describes strategies for healing. He is warm and compassionate, and his examples which all come from his experience over many years, illustrate the complexity of the human response to tragic events and explain why it can take many years to recover.


He explains the deep-seated reorganisation of people's lives as they face the loss of their homes and routines and, in some cases, their friends and family who cannot cope with the enormity of supporting them. And how the stress from the trauma creates tunnel vision as they have to deal with multiple challenges at once, including loss of identity.


As Rob points out the most crucial ingredient of healing from this type of trauma is to have personal contact with others, strong support and social networks.



------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Dr Rob Gordon is a psychotherapist who specialises in trauma caused by natural and other disasters. He has been a consultant to the Victorian government and the Red Cross for disasters since 1989. 

In this podcast, Rob gives us a powerful and detailed explanation of the effects trauma resulting from disasters and describes strategies for healing. He is warm and compassionate, and his examples which all come from his experience over many years, illustrate the complexity of the human response to tragic events and explain why it can take many years to recover.


He explains the deep-seated reorganisation of people's lives as they face the loss of their homes and routines and, in some cases, their friends and family who cannot cope with the enormity of supporting them. And how the stress from the trauma creates tunnel vision as they have to deal with multiple challenges at once, including loss of identity.


As Rob points out the most crucial ingredient of healing from this type of trauma is to have personal contact with others, strong support and social networks.



------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>da06a6a8-2d4b-4b37-97f5-210239969e37Mon, 09 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +100055:21falsefull1010Kintsugi HeroesLeading a community with empathy, and managing media misinformation with Peter Hunter • River Murray Recovery Stories E09Leading a community with empathy, and managing media misinformation with Peter Hunter • River Murray Recovery Stories E09Peter Hunter grew up by the sea, developing a lifelong love for water, which later shaped his deep connection to rivers and the natural environment.

He began his career in 1977, serving as a teacher and later a school principal, honing his skills in leadership and community engagement.

Peter transitioned into public service, joining the Renmark council and preparing for greater responsibilities within local government.

Elected as Renmark's mayor just before the 2022 floods hit, Peter faced this immediate challenge with determination and a collaborative spirit.

During the floods, Peter prioritised community communication, relied on local knowledge, and led with empathy, all while tackling misinformation and media challenges.

With an emphasis on teamwork, Peter worked closely with local councils, engineers, and even competitors, showcasing the power of unity in crisis management.

Thanks to the work of Peter and others, Renmark emerged with stronger community ties and improved flood preparedness, embodying resilience and hope for future challenges.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Peter Hunter grew up by the sea, developing a lifelong love for water, which later shaped his deep connection to rivers and the natural environment.

He began his career in 1977, serving as a teacher and later a school principal, honing his skills in leadership and community engagement.

Peter transitioned into public service, joining the Renmark council and preparing for greater responsibilities within local government.

Elected as Renmark's mayor just before the 2022 floods hit, Peter faced this immediate challenge with determination and a collaborative spirit.

During the floods, Peter prioritised community communication, relied on local knowledge, and led with empathy, all while tackling misinformation and media challenges.

With an emphasis on teamwork, Peter worked closely with local councils, engineers, and even competitors, showcasing the power of unity in crisis management.

Thanks to the work of Peter and others, Renmark emerged with stronger community ties and improved flood preparedness, embodying resilience and hope for future challenges.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>3d19448c-884b-4cb4-918e-6473c0db48b0Mon, 02 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +100059:14falsefull99Kintsugi HeroesRekindling a spirit of collaboration and keeping the community connected with Shannon Baxter • River Murray RecoveryRekindling a spirit of collaboration and keeping the community connected with Shannon Baxter • River Murray RecoveryShannon worked initially in business and HR, then transitioned into local government nearly ten years ago, developing a passion for infrastructure while supporting management teams.

As an intelligence officer for the Renmark Paringa Council, she coordinated resources, working diligently with her team to prepare for the River Murray flood's impacts on the community.

Shannon emphasised leveraging local expertise, involving community members in flood response efforts, highlighting their significant role in managing the crisis effectively.

Coordinating inspections and repairs, she focused on restoring damaged roads and systems, ensuring crucial access routes remained operational during the flood.

Shannon's team monitored levees using GIS tools, maintaining a daily inspection regimen to promptly respond to any structural issues.

Ensuring transparency, she led communications, updating the community on recovery plans, and prioritising clear, ongoing dialogue through social media and public sessions.

Post-flood, Shannon applied learned lessons to strengthen future preparedness, fostering a culture of resilience and environmental appreciation within the community.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Shannon worked initially in business and HR, then transitioned into local government nearly ten years ago, developing a passion for infrastructure while supporting management teams.

As an intelligence officer for the Renmark Paringa Council, she coordinated resources, working diligently with her team to prepare for the River Murray flood's impacts on the community.

Shannon emphasised leveraging local expertise, involving community members in flood response efforts, highlighting their significant role in managing the crisis effectively.

Coordinating inspections and repairs, she focused on restoring damaged roads and systems, ensuring crucial access routes remained operational during the flood.

Shannon's team monitored levees using GIS tools, maintaining a daily inspection regimen to promptly respond to any structural issues.

Ensuring transparency, she led communications, updating the community on recovery plans, and prioritising clear, ongoing dialogue through social media and public sessions.

Post-flood, Shannon applied learned lessons to strengthen future preparedness, fostering a culture of resilience and environmental appreciation within the community.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>5009bc3a-703a-48cf-ac84-24c73ce9d886Mon, 26 May 2025 09:00:00 +100053:55falsefull88Kintsugi HeroesRebuilding a sense of purpose and providing mental health support with Shelley Rose • River Murray Recovery Stories E07Rebuilding a sense of purpose and providing mental health support with Shelley Rose • River Murray Recovery Stories E07Shelley Rose was the Wellbeing officer for the huge area affected by the 2022 Murray River  flood. She is a mental health practitioner and retired financial counsellor who has been deeply rooted in her local Riverland community for over 23 years.

 Shelley's first task was understanding the varied needs of flood victims, from primary and secondary residents to elderly folks moving back to the city.

Traveling across 440 kilometres of affected areas, Shelley faced challenges like inaccessible roads, necessitating a switch to a four-wheel drive for effective outreach.   Facilitating everything from generators for essential services to legal aid for insurance battles, she connected residents with vital resources. 

She highlighted the rising mental health concerns two years after the flood, as ongoing stress and living conditions affected community resilience.

Shelley coordinated with Sophie Thompson from Gardening Australia to rejuvenate flood-ravaged gardens, including planting donated roses, which offered emotional solace to affected residents.

To assist with building community resilience, Shelley encouraged initiatives like accidental counselling courses and regular get-togethers to foster communal support and mental health awareness.

Tackling everything from mould treatments to financial planning, Shelley adapted solutions to meet the unique needs of each flood-affected household, helping sustain community hope.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Shelley Rose was the Wellbeing officer for the huge area affected by the 2022 Murray River  flood. She is a mental health practitioner and retired financial counsellor who has been deeply rooted in her local Riverland community for over 23 years.

 Shelley's first task was understanding the varied needs of flood victims, from primary and secondary residents to elderly folks moving back to the city.

Traveling across 440 kilometres of affected areas, Shelley faced challenges like inaccessible roads, necessitating a switch to a four-wheel drive for effective outreach.   Facilitating everything from generators for essential services to legal aid for insurance battles, she connected residents with vital resources. 

She highlighted the rising mental health concerns two years after the flood, as ongoing stress and living conditions affected community resilience.

Shelley coordinated with Sophie Thompson from Gardening Australia to rejuvenate flood-ravaged gardens, including planting donated roses, which offered emotional solace to affected residents.

To assist with building community resilience, Shelley encouraged initiatives like accidental counselling courses and regular get-togethers to foster communal support and mental health awareness.

Tackling everything from mould treatments to financial planning, Shelley adapted solutions to meet the unique needs of each flood-affected household, helping sustain community hope.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>059920eb-fb1c-455b-b8a3-af4d91714098Mon, 19 May 2025 05:00:00 +100059:01falsefull77Kintsugi HeroesReuniting the community and fostering resilience with Julie Ahrens • River Murray Recovery Stories E06Reuniting the community and fostering resilience with Julie Ahrens • River Murray Recovery Stories E06Julie Ahrens began her journey as a bonded student teacher, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities in rural Australia. Drawn by job prospects and adventure, Julie moved from to Berri where her passion for teaching and community blossomed.

Julie fully immersed herself in the Riverland lifestyle, cherishing the natural beauty and forming deep connections through local events and initiatives.

With a focus on information literacy, Julie who is a skilled storyteller, contributed significantly to training and development in rural schools during the 1980s.

Actively involved in local activities, Julie fostered strong ties within the community, understanding the unique culture and lifestyle of rural towns.

Julie led initiatives to repair community connections after the devastating floods, emphasising resilience and unity through creative and inclusive efforts.

Her dedication to strengthening community bonds and nurturing young leaders continues to leave a lasting impact in Riverland, building a robust support network.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Julie Ahrens began her journey as a bonded student teacher, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities in rural Australia. Drawn by job prospects and adventure, Julie moved from to Berri where her passion for teaching and community blossomed.

Julie fully immersed herself in the Riverland lifestyle, cherishing the natural beauty and forming deep connections through local events and initiatives.

With a focus on information literacy, Julie who is a skilled storyteller, contributed significantly to training and development in rural schools during the 1980s.

Actively involved in local activities, Julie fostered strong ties within the community, understanding the unique culture and lifestyle of rural towns.

Julie led initiatives to repair community connections after the devastating floods, emphasising resilience and unity through creative and inclusive efforts.

Her dedication to strengthening community bonds and nurturing young leaders continues to leave a lasting impact in Riverland, building a robust support network.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>242ec39f-f3bb-4d03-bba2-b194bbe527c3Mon, 12 May 2025 05:00:00 +100056:26falsefull66Kintsugi HeroesStepping up to responsibility in a time of crisis with Simone Bailey • River Murray Recovery Stories E05Stepping up to responsibility in a time of crisis with Simone Bailey • River Murray Recovery Stories E05After being an accountant with the Mid Murray Council, Simone had just been elected Mayor when she suddenly faced a major flood crisis, shifting quickly into immediate disaster management.

Simone rallied the community, organising meetings and delivering flyers to get everyone up to speed on flood risks and emergency plans.

Simone helped to successfully secure State Government funding and support, ensuring that essential services continued, and resources reached her community swiftly.

With insurance concerns rising, she tackled premium hikes, working to address affordability issues for affected residents.

Simone worked closely with other councils and the SES, emphasising teamwork and shared intelligence to manage the flood's impact effectively.

She also conducted numerous very successful media interviews with poise and determination to represent the true situation facing her community.

Throughout the catastrophic flood event, Simone highlighted community strength, focusing on recovery efforts and learning from the flood for future preparedness.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>After being an accountant with the Mid Murray Council, Simone had just been elected Mayor when she suddenly faced a major flood crisis, shifting quickly into immediate disaster management.

Simone rallied the community, organising meetings and delivering flyers to get everyone up to speed on flood risks and emergency plans.

Simone helped to successfully secure State Government funding and support, ensuring that essential services continued, and resources reached her community swiftly.

With insurance concerns rising, she tackled premium hikes, working to address affordability issues for affected residents.

Simone worked closely with other councils and the SES, emphasising teamwork and shared intelligence to manage the flood's impact effectively.

She also conducted numerous very successful media interviews with poise and determination to represent the true situation facing her community.

Throughout the catastrophic flood event, Simone highlighted community strength, focusing on recovery efforts and learning from the flood for future preparedness.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>f4f1b49b-0085-4aa5-8ce3-8cf092dc13a2Mon, 05 May 2025 09:00:00 +100054:40falsefull55Kintsugi HeroesManaging emergency communications in a time of need with Ivan Smith • River Murray Recovery Stories E04Managing emergency communications in a time of need with Ivan Smith • River Murray Recovery Stories E04Born and bred in Renmark, Ivan spent over four decades running his own motor mechanic business before retiring.

Passionate about radio communications, Ivan pursued electronics and transitioned into the communications field to avoid heavy manual labour. His expertise landed him a role on the South Australian government radio network, working closely with emergency services like police, fire, and SES.

During the 2022 floods, Ivan's elevated property allowed him to focus on helping others rather than worrying about his own safety.

Spotting potential communication issues due to flooding, Ivan devised a plan for uninterrupted emergency communication and presented it to the council. His proactive approach led to the implementation of solar-powered, standalone communication systems, uniting community efforts and ensuring effective management.

Beyond technical support, Ivan offered emotional assistance to friends and neighbours, providing both practical help and moral support during the crisis.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Born and bred in Renmark, Ivan spent over four decades running his own motor mechanic business before retiring.

Passionate about radio communications, Ivan pursued electronics and transitioned into the communications field to avoid heavy manual labour. His expertise landed him a role on the South Australian government radio network, working closely with emergency services like police, fire, and SES.

During the 2022 floods, Ivan's elevated property allowed him to focus on helping others rather than worrying about his own safety.

Spotting potential communication issues due to flooding, Ivan devised a plan for uninterrupted emergency communication and presented it to the council. His proactive approach led to the implementation of solar-powered, standalone communication systems, uniting community efforts and ensuring effective management.

Beyond technical support, Ivan offered emotional assistance to friends and neighbours, providing both practical help and moral support during the crisis.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>bfc421ec-6bda-4bf3-92b5-31453019436eMon, 28 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +100046:57falsefull44Kintsugi HeroesSafeguarding the community and leading a team through natural disaster with Tony Siviour • River Murray Recovery Stories E03Safeguarding the community and leading a team through natural disaster with Tony Siviour • River Murray Recovery Stories E03Tony Sivour is the general manager of the Renmark Paringa Council in South Australia. Born in Barmera, he's a long-term Riverlander who returned after gaining valuable local government experience elsewhere.

Tony worked tirelessly to protect Renmark during the major 2022 floods. His efforts focused on managing the levees, coordinating with authorities, and keeping the community informed and safe.

 As flood warnings loomed, Tony quickly initiated the emergency incident management team, ensuring the council was ready to face the approaching deluge.  Renmark's levee banks span 38 kilometres, and Tony coordinated repairs and fortifications, involving 350 private landowners to get consent for necessary work.

 There was the additional challenge of managing media communications. Local media support was invaluable, though sensationalism required quick, centralised messaging.

Through daily meetings, Tony’s team tackled urgent issues like stormwater management, preventing internal flooding, and utilising digital elevation models for priority decisions.

Tony addressed community concerns firsthand and discussed strategies with veteran residents, reinforcing trust and ensuring everyone understood the situation’s gravity.   He liaised with other affected councils, offering insights from Renmark’s experiences.

 Managing cleanup efforts, Tony ensured the council’s continuous support to help the community bounce back from the flood's aftermath, prioritising safety and infrastructure.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Tony Sivour is the general manager of the Renmark Paringa Council in South Australia. Born in Barmera, he's a long-term Riverlander who returned after gaining valuable local government experience elsewhere.

Tony worked tirelessly to protect Renmark during the major 2022 floods. His efforts focused on managing the levees, coordinating with authorities, and keeping the community informed and safe.

 As flood warnings loomed, Tony quickly initiated the emergency incident management team, ensuring the council was ready to face the approaching deluge.  Renmark's levee banks span 38 kilometres, and Tony coordinated repairs and fortifications, involving 350 private landowners to get consent for necessary work.

 There was the additional challenge of managing media communications. Local media support was invaluable, though sensationalism required quick, centralised messaging.

Through daily meetings, Tony’s team tackled urgent issues like stormwater management, preventing internal flooding, and utilising digital elevation models for priority decisions.

Tony addressed community concerns firsthand and discussed strategies with veteran residents, reinforcing trust and ensuring everyone understood the situation’s gravity.   He liaised with other affected councils, offering insights from Renmark’s experiences.

 Managing cleanup efforts, Tony ensured the council’s continuous support to help the community bounce back from the flood's aftermath, prioritising safety and infrastructure.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>078589d0-de90-4924-b28a-aad055a6bdd7Mon, 21 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +100043:34falsefull33Kintsugi HeroesTurning disaster into natural beauty through photography with Paul Smith • River Murray Recovery Stories E02Turning disaster into natural beauty through photography with Paul Smith • River Murray Recovery Stories E02Paul Smith, known locally as Jubba, took up photography after a motorbike accident in 2008 left him on disability. After moving to Mannum, South Australia, he began photographing the river, discovering its serene beauty

During the 2022, floods Jubba documented the water slowly rising in Mannum and the surrounding areas.

As the floodwaters rose, locals and authorities built levees and Jubba captured the community's collective efforts.

Granted special access to levees, Jubba's photos provided a rare view of the unfolding flood and its severity. Despite the levees, many riverside businesses were flooded and he showed the resilience and struggles of affected owners.

Post-flood, Jubba work continues to highlight both the beauty of the river and the enduring spirit of the Mannum community.

You can find Jubba’s photos on Facebook and Instagram  as Jubba Photography

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Paul Smith, known locally as Jubba, took up photography after a motorbike accident in 2008 left him on disability. After moving to Mannum, South Australia, he began photographing the river, discovering its serene beauty

During the 2022, floods Jubba documented the water slowly rising in Mannum and the surrounding areas.

As the floodwaters rose, locals and authorities built levees and Jubba captured the community's collective efforts.

Granted special access to levees, Jubba's photos provided a rare view of the unfolding flood and its severity. Despite the levees, many riverside businesses were flooded and he showed the resilience and struggles of affected owners.

Post-flood, Jubba work continues to highlight both the beauty of the river and the enduring spirit of the Mannum community.

You can find Jubba’s photos on Facebook and Instagram  as Jubba Photography

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>98b2b3b4-2250-426c-802e-e741f742b6a8Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +100026:02falsefull22Kintsugi HeroesSupporting communities in their times of need with John Milham • River Murray Recovery Stories E01Supporting communities in their times of need with John Milham • River Murray Recovery Stories E01Growing up in Wee Waa, John Milham, a Director of Kintsugi Heroes and host of the River Murray Recovery Stories, experienced the unpredictability of floods. These events taught him about nature's power and the importance of community support in the face of adversity.

John recalls the struggles his community faced during floods, from defending homes to coping with displaced wildlife. These challenges demanded creativity and resilience for survival and recovery.

During floods, the town came together, whether offering shelter at the local pub or using tractors for transport, the community proved its strength and unity.

John's experiences in Wee Waa helped him develop leadership skills. He watched local leaders guide their community through crisis, understanding the impact of decisive and compassionate decision-making.

Floods didn’t just bring physical challenges; they also affected the community’s spirit. The resilience forged during these times became an essential part of the town’s cultural fabric and identity.

Navigating floods in Wee Waa taught John the importance of respecting nature and adapting to its forces. These lessons influenced his lifelong commitment to community service and understanding environmental dynamics.

John's flood experiences became emblematic of shared community history. By preserving and sharing these stories, he emphasises the need for future preparedness and communal resilience, inspiring the next generation.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>Growing up in Wee Waa, John Milham, a Director of Kintsugi Heroes and host of the River Murray Recovery Stories, experienced the unpredictability of floods. These events taught him about nature's power and the importance of community support in the face of adversity.

John recalls the struggles his community faced during floods, from defending homes to coping with displaced wildlife. These challenges demanded creativity and resilience for survival and recovery.

During floods, the town came together, whether offering shelter at the local pub or using tractors for transport, the community proved its strength and unity.

John's experiences in Wee Waa helped him develop leadership skills. He watched local leaders guide their community through crisis, understanding the impact of decisive and compassionate decision-making.

Floods didn’t just bring physical challenges; they also affected the community’s spirit. The resilience forged during these times became an essential part of the town’s cultural fabric and identity.

Navigating floods in Wee Waa taught John the importance of respecting nature and adapting to its forces. These lessons influenced his lifelong commitment to community service and understanding environmental dynamics.

John's flood experiences became emblematic of shared community history. By preserving and sharing these stories, he emphasises the need for future preparedness and communal resilience, inspiring the next generation.

------

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of River Murray Recovery Stories, brought to you by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/con...

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

The Kintsugi Heroes team

]]>859fd1e6-2ea1-4269-ae45-425dbe0dd7dbThu, 10 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +100045:11falsefull11Kintsugi HeroesTrailer - River Murray Recovery StoriesTrailer - River Murray Recovery StoriesThe 2022 River Murray floods in South Australia were caused by record water inflows from the Murray-Darling Basin due to heavy upstream rainfall. The slowly rising floodwaters inundated homes, businesses, and farmland, causing widespread displacement, infrastructure damage, and agricultural losses. The disaster significantly impacted local economies, communities, and the region’s long-term recovery.

In this special limited series of Kintsugi Heroes, John Milham sits down with members of the Riverlands community and gives them space to share their experiences of their personal adversity and community resilience. It's only through connection and empathy that there can be a path to recovery. 

These stories of trauma can be confronting. If you find they have a triggering effect, please reach out to someone who can help keep you safe. 

Now listen in as John takes you to the Riverland Recovery Stories with Kintsugi Heroes.

]]>The 2022 River Murray floods in South Australia were caused by record water inflows from the Murray-Darling Basin due to heavy upstream rainfall. The slowly rising floodwaters inundated homes, businesses, and farmland, causing widespread displacement, infrastructure damage, and agricultural losses. The disaster significantly impacted local economies, communities, and the region’s long-term recovery.

In this special limited series of Kintsugi Heroes, John Milham sits down with members of the Riverlands community and gives them space to share their experiences of their personal adversity and community resilience. It's only through connection and empathy that there can be a path to recovery. 

These stories of trauma can be confronting. If you find they have a triggering effect, please reach out to someone who can help keep you safe. 

Now listen in as John takes you to the Riverland Recovery Stories with Kintsugi Heroes.

]]>8a7360f2-a785-4434-9579-5c17efa4b38eFri, 04 Apr 2025 09:00:00 +100000:58falsetrailerKintsugi Heroes