Latrobe flood rescuers reflect on 2016 disaster

Ten years after the June 2016 Latrobe floods, rescuers are reflecting on the intense conditions of the disaster. Constable Mark Johnston, who served as the search mission controller, described the experience as having the noise of debris hitting buildings like a “freight train.”

During the event, rescuers worked in water reaching chest depth. Johnston and former Devonport City Council worker Michael Lynd are set to receive bravery awards for their actions during the floods. The disaster resulted in the death of Mary Allford, who was the only fatality during the flooding event.