Nathan Spicer looks back at the events and issues from December in The Guardian’s Year in Review series.
Friday, December 2
• A rapid impact survey estimated tourism operators along the Murray had lost an estimated $120 million during the flood crisis. Murray Regional Tourism interim chief executive Will Flamsteed expected that number to triple by January. Half of the tourism businesses along the Murray had been forced to shed staff after 40-80 per cent of bookings were cancelled.
• Balranald 19-year-old man Nungarra Kelly’s lifeless body was retrieved from the Murrumbidgee River after being last seen on the Swing Bridge five days earlier. An extensive land and water search were conducted by Barrier Police District officers, SES, RFS, Marine Rescue and other specialist police.
Tuesday, December 6
• Newly installed tourism infrastructure at Lake Tyrrell was impacted by floodwaters and there were significant concerns toxins such as asbestos may have entered the lake. The Environment Protection Authority confirmed recent heavy rainfall had “created floodwaters which have affected the site”. The extent of the damage was unknown.
• Record crowds turned out for the Nyah District Christmas Carnival. From pony and camel rides to market stalls, live entertainment and fireworks, revellers soaked up the festive atmosphere. Carnival secretary Vicki Allen said the night was a “huge success”.
