Great Ocean Road Towns Rally After Historic Flood

When historic flooding swept through Victoria's Great Ocean Road towns on Thursday, something remarkable happened alongside the chaos: nobody got hurt.

Record rainfall of more than 180 millimeters fell in just four hours near Lorne and Wye River, smashing previous daily records. The downpour triggered flash floods that swept cars into the ocean and forced 200 people from caravan parks and low-lying areas.

Emergency services had never seen rainfall like this in the region. The deluge came down so fast from the hills that people barely had time to react. "We missed being killed probably by about 10 seconds. We just ran for our lives basically," said local resident Peter Jacobs as floodwaters destroyed two bridges on his property.

Amy Pollett's family experienced those terrifying moments firsthand. Her husband was in the bathrooms with their four-year-old when their other two children came screaming about rising water. The family jumped in their car and made it to higher ground, though their caravan was swept away along with the kids' new Christmas bikes.

But here's where the story turns bright. The community of Lorne immediately stepped up. Residents opened their homes to displaced families. Op shops provided clothes. The local Wye River pub became a refuge and meeting point for evacuees from the caravan park.

"Everyone here in Lorne has been amazing. They put us up in accommodation," said Meg Jay, who was separated from her family during the flooding.

Emergency services sent 10,000 text alerts to keep people safe. SES crews worked through dangerous conditions, assisting people trapped in caravans. Despite half a meter of mud covering parts of the caravan park and debris-filled floodwaters, their efforts meant zero injuries.

The Bright Side

The speed and coordination of the emergency response shows how far Australia's disaster preparedness has come. Text alerts reached thousands in time. Emergency crews knew exactly what to do. Most importantly, neighbors looked out for neighbors without hesitation.

Weather warnings have now been downgraded, though repairs to affected foreshore areas may take weeks. The community is already organizing support for families who lost belongings in the floods.

When nature throws its worst, communities show their best.