Back Roads: Feb 27

This week on Back Roads Heather Ewart returns to Eugowra, a small town at the centre of a vibrant farming community in the central west of New South Wales.

One of the first towns the program visited after the pandemic hit in 2020, disaster struck again in November 2022. A flash flood inundated the town and nearby farms, damaging at least 80 per cent of local properties and businesses. But the people of Eugowra refuse to give up. They have nursed their wounds and are pulling together, determined to get their town back on the map.

Farmer Jason Smith tells the terrifying story of almost drowning with his horse Bootleg as he tried to move a herd of cattle ahead of the deluge, but the floodwater inundated his stock yards. The footage he filmed at the time has to be seen to be believed.

Hugh and Lyn Ellis, who Back Roads met in 2020, had just finished renovating their dream home when the floodwaters exploded through their windows and walls. Friends and strangers rushed to help them rebuild, buoying their spirits as they gradually piece their lives back together.

In the wake of this disaster the people of Eugowra have lost so much: homes, livelihoods, and loved ones too. But in amongst the mud and muck the flood left behind the people of Eugowra are finding riches too – strength, loyalty and love for the place they call home.

8pm Tuesday on ABC.