These are benchmark floods in many cases and, while the images of towns and houses under water are immediate and stark, city viewers will lose interest if something else comes along to atttract their attention.

A lot of the focus has been on the larger centres and the river systems-the Namoi River and the towns of Boggabri, Narrabri, Wee Waa and, on the Gwydir, principally around Moree. But talk to the Member for Parkes Mark Coulton and he will relate some of the more tragic stories he is getting through his office. These are about battles coming from unknown streams and cross-country flows mainly between Moree and Narrabri, now focusing on the Rowena community.

Lightning Ridge, Walgett and other properties, localities and small communities in that shire are in for a soggy time of things.

The Liberal endorses Mr Coulton’s remarks in appreciation of the hard work and efforts of emergency services and the spirit of local communities who have banded together in a challenging time.

The impact on public infrastructure and the cost to local government will be huge. There is no doubt it will challenge local government to a point beyond which it has not had to travel before.

So lend a helping hand if you can, that’s what bush spirit is all about.