Frontline workers and services who are supporting vulnerable residents during the COVID-19 pandemic are being honoured in a spectacular display.
As the sun goes down in Broken Hill this week, images of staff and volunteers from organisations and services that have assisted community members are lighting up the town.
The colourful slideshow tribute, that started on Monday night, is Broken Hill City Council’s way of giving an extra thanks to all the notable efforts made to ensure safety was maintained.
“It came about because different entities worked together to make sure people had enough to eat and were safe,” community development officer Dionne Devlin said.
“We thought it would be nice to say thank you for how they have helped people while they were unwell.
“We want people to know we value their contributions and remind us how strong we are when we work together.”
She said the visible images at the Town Hall Facade and Civic Centre were sourced and arranged by the highly skilled team at the Broken Hill City Council.
Pictures in the tribute include individuals representing Mission Australia, Resilience NSW, Far West Local Health District, Maari Ma, Salvation Army and local Council.
While people were in quarantine and isolation, household needs were assessed so that the required assistance was able to be provided.
The group tasked with food and welfare was a subcommittee of the Local Emergency Management Response.
It was chaired by the Department of Communities and Justice staff and contained membership from state and local agencies and charities.
“It’s really a representation of the groups and community that helped people during the pandemic,” Mrs Devlin said.
“To have people devote that time and energy to help the needs of people was great to be a part of.”
That devotion is set to continue as communities in the region battle with COVID-19 outbreaks.
The Far West Local Health District currently has a growing number of active COVID-19 cases.
Mrs Devlin said local support is available and encourages individuals and families to reach out when needed.
“As long as help is needed, help is available,” she said.
“There is a charitable network and if people contact them, they will find information and support.”
To make enquiries or for help, contact the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080 or Lifeline on 131 114.
The tribute display will run until the end of the week.
