A couple holidaying in Tasmania’s north-east have described themselves as “very lucky” to be alive after a tree fell on and crushed their caravan.
James and Jacqueline McGivern were staying at the Bridport Caravan Park when the large tree came down during Sunday’s severe weather event.
The extensive damage came as gusts well in excess of 100km/h lashed all corners of the state, with fallen trees knocking out power to thousands and cutting off small communities.
The storm caused widespread blackouts and cut off small communities as fallen trees damaged powerlines, leaving thousands without electricity.
“We were very lucky,” Mr McGivern told the North Eastern Advertiser.
“A special thanks to a local takeaway who gave us breakfast and the garage [that] helped us without charge.”
He also thanked the “wonderful” volunteer firefighters and park managers who rushed to their aid, plus locals who approached them with “offers of genuine help”.
“We don’t know many of their names but would like to thank them,” he said.
“The fine spirit of the Bridport community meant so much more than what we experienced in the storm.”
Dorset Council Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw applauded the efforts of staff, workers and volunteers who responded to outages and emergencies during the storm.
“A number of trees fell at Bridport Caravan Park and within the Blue Derby Network,” he said.
“[There has also] been some damage to several of council’s facilities including the Ringarooma and Branxholm recreation grounds.”
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