Daly River Evacuation: Community and Authorities Rally for Left-Behind Pets

The remote Northern Territory community of Daly River, also known as Nauiyu, was evacuated last week due to a significant flood threat, leading residents to leave their pets behind with limited notice. The Daly River is projected to reach a peak of 14 meters, indicating a major flood event.

A Family's Initiative to Help

Ingrid Schreiner and her family, who previously resided in Daly River and now live 10 kilometers away near Five Mile, identified an urgent need for animal assistance during the evacuation. They took immediate action, undertaking a five-hour round trip to Darwin to procure dog food and materials for emergency kennels.

"Ingrid Schreiner and her family... identified a need for animal assistance during the evacuation."

Ingrid's partner, John Bonson, constructed these emergency kennels in Five Mile, a location safely outside the flood zone, preparing for the arrival of rescued animals.

Rescue in a 'Ghost Town'

Before the area became fully isolated by floodwaters, Ingrid, accompanied by her children Jontae and Tessie, traveled into Daly River with a police escort. Their journey was challenging, with roads largely submerged; the group even observed a small crocodile during their trip.

In the evacuated town, which was described as a 'ghost town,' they successfully located and rescued 10 dogs, including several puppies. A cat, named Kit Kat, also approached the family and was taken with them to safety.

"In the evacuated town, which was described as a 'ghost town,' they located and rescued 10 dogs, including several puppies."

Coordinated Efforts for Animal Welfare

John Bonson has since maintained crucial communication with Daly River evacuees in Darwin, providing updates on their pets housed at Five Mile. Authorities have also prioritized animal welfare during this major event.

Incident controller David Moore stated that an animal welfare officer is present in Daly River, providing continuous care for animals left behind, with ongoing police support.

"Authorities have also prioritized animal welfare... an animal welfare officer is present in Daly River, providing continuous care for animals left behind, with police support."

Additionally, several houses remain accessible for pets to congregate, and animals are reportedly 'very well-fed and watered,' with updates and photos provided to evacuees to reassure them about their beloved companions.