The corner of Tallarook and Station streets in Seymour were totally underwater last year, causing extensive flooding to businesses. Photo: Sean Bottling

As the one-year mark since the October 2022 floods approaches, Mitchell Shire Council is encouraging people to nominate the unsung heroes of the event who offered crucial support during the flood and its aftermath.

Council has opened the Community Champions Recognition Program and invited people to nominate fellow community members. 

The program offers an opportunity for the community to share the stories of champions who supported others during the floods, and to say thank you to the many people, organisations and businesses who made a difference.

Mitchell Shire Mayor Fiona Stevens encouraged everyone to put forward names of those who demonstrated community spirit in the shire so the region could express its collective gratitude. 

“Sometimes just being thought of and nominated is a very special thing,” she said.

“You don’t have to win to know you have been appreciated. All acts of kindness, big or small, in a crisis deserve a ‘thankyou’. Here’s an opportunity to do just that.”

Community recovery committee co-chair Bridget Tehan said there were some community members ‘who really stood out’ during last year’s floods.

“People went above and beyond to support their neighbours, friends, family and even strangers as the flood waters hit, and many more helped in the aftermath,” she said.

“These people deserve recognition and the Community Champions program is a great way to do just that.”

The Seymour Community Recovery Committee will select the recipients.

To nominate for the Community Champion Recognition Program, visit mitchellshire.vic.gov.au/community-champions.

Nominations are open until September 22.