Kempsey Community Rises Stronger After the Flood

St Joseph's Primary School, Kempsey, has responded to the devastating May 2025 floods with resilience and unity, continuing to support students through community partnerships, ongoing learning, and a strong commitment to recovery. (3 June 2025)

In the aftermath of the devastating May 2025 floods, the St Joseph’s Primary School, Kempsey community has shown remarkable resilience, unity, and gratitude. Record-breaking rainfall caused the Macleay River to overflow, severely impacting families and damaging key school facilities, including four classrooms, the canteen, playgrounds, Out of School Hours Care, and the community garden, essential spaces for student learning and connection. Despite this destruction, the spirit of St Joseph’s has remained strong.

In the weeks following the flood, staff prioritised supporting families beyond the classroom, understanding the emotional and financial strain many faced. Learning continued through take-home packs and online platforms, carefully aligned with the curriculum to provide stability and engagement. Staff worked tirelessly with the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools and local contractors to clean, restore, and prepare safe learning environments for students’ return.

This recovery was strengthened by the generous support of St Paul’s College, Kempsey, which welcomed displaced students, leading reflection sessions and mini-sport activities to keep learners connected and supported.

‘We are truly grateful to the leadership, staff, and students of St Paul’s for their kindness and community spirit. Your generosity has made a real difference to our families, and we are proud to be part of such a caring local education network,’ said Assistant Principal Claire Thurlow.

Through acts of kindness and strong community partnerships, St Joseph’s is rebuilding not only its facilities but also a sense of routine, belonging, and joy, committed to creating a vibrant, safe environment for every child to thrive.