Townsville is drying after the flood but recovery will take time

Hanna Hakio tells about the longer term recovery process. Many people are beginning to rebuild their lives from nothing, as many had to flee with just the clothes they were wearing because the waters rose so rapidly

Source: AAP

Children going to  school need new uniforms and books, the parents have to get clothing and whatever else they need for work.  Those who lost everything also lost irreplaceable things like family heirlooms, photographs and such.  Because so many dwellings were destroyed or damaged, Townsville is going through a severe housing shortage. Buildings are being repaired and cleaned where possible and new dwellings built. A large part of Townsville is on low lying ground and those who can afford to do so are moving to higher ground.