Here in WA we have been having our own struggles with both fire and flood.
Fortunately, not on the scale of what is happening in QLD (our hearts go out to all those facing this peril) but still devastating for all those involved and their communities. Many historic, family and business records will have been lost or damaged in the recent Carnarvan floods and Lake Clifton bushfires. So far the best I have been able to do is to pass on links to advice such as:
http://www.naa.gov.au/services/family-historians/family-archive/fire.aspx
Of course, we all know it is easy to wish that we had put measures in place before disaster strikes but I guess that this is a harsh reminder of the importance of Disaster Planning and the role that we as archivists can play within our communities and beyond. It is also important for us to spread the word to the broader community that there are measures that can be taken even after the event that will aid recovery.
It is wonderful to see the way that people are pulling together right now in QLD to put whatever measures they can in place to minimize the damage. Obviously they are going to need a great deal of support for many months afterwards to help with the recovery.
Best wishes and stay safe.
Margaret
Replies
Hi Margaret,
Thanks for the update from the West - it is easy to be forgotten when everyone is talking about Queensland - but at a very personal level everyone'sstruggle with the elements and the grief and loss that so often follows is tragedy.
Best for 2011
Jenny