Three days photographing the devastation left behind from the Queensland floods, followed by the clean up recovery was enough to leave a mark on my memory, both photographically and emotionally.

Heading out with Illawarra SES volunteers on my first day cushioned the blow of the tragedy. I worked around them as they embarked on one task after another. The atmosphere was uplifting being surrounded by a team of problem solvers. With the agonising humidity there were snippets of down time to be alone with your thoughts, but there was always a joker amongst us to keep the mood light, or a makeshift game of cricket with a spade and tennis ball.

It was hard work, but there was great satisfaction found in knowing we were helping others. The community spirit was found on every street with pizza and coffee being handed out, cleaning of our boots from a passing water truck, and even Illawarra Police personally helping fellow QLD Police rectify their homes while off duty.

Stepping off the train in Goodna on day two was like stepping into another world. I tip toed around deserted houses, once homes, where the windows were smashed out, and furniture had been washed away. The stench was claustrophobic, as were the thoughts racing through my mind. The question of death lingered and tragedy engulfed my senses.

I spent the day in my own company, applying my camera to the finer details of the devastation left behind. Lumps in my throat formed early in the day and did not leave until sleep had erased the emotions that were building inside of me.

Day three was a welcome return to human contact. Illawarra volunteers from Global Care were in North Booval, the outskirts of Ipswich. Illawarra volunteers went from street to street offering assistance. The day was spent stripping houses of ceilings and walls, as flood levels had been two storeys high. The streets were lined with soggy debris, personal belongings found throughout. Houses were gutted and gurneys were used in an attempt to clean the framework within.

The day ended with a cold donated XXXX beer. Classic. It was great to find so many Illawarra volunteers on the ground. Having the opportunity to see small steps being made towards an enormous clean up effort was truly rewarding, as every little bit counts.

• Day 1 - Graceville, QLD
• Day 2 - Goodna, QLD
• Day 3 - North Booval, QLD