Jess Yates, a horse agistment owner in the NSW Hunter region, received an urgent call about a neighbor’s horse trapped in floodwaters. Rushing to the scene, she found the horse entangled in electric fencing and quickly jumped into the water to cut it free, ensuring its head stayed above water until she could guide it to safety. The region has been severely impacted by flooding, with reports of rising livestock casualties, including a death toll of around 1,000 animals.

Craig Ruttley, a thoroughbred breeder in Taree, shared his experience of rescuing his 45 horses by swimming with them to higher ground, emphasizing the dire situation for many in the area. He noted that while he was fortunate, numerous others have suffered significant losses, including homes and pets. The flooding has devastated horse paddocks, and the community is rallying to support affected farmers and animals.

In response to the crisis, the NSW government has mobilized resources, delivering emergency fodder and providing veterinary assistance for animal welfare. However, the long-term impact on local businesses, including Yates’s, is concerning, as they face challenges like potential hay shortages and infrastructure damage. Assistance is available for those affected, including disaster recovery allowances and support for livestock care.