Harry Taylor: Kalbarri, Northampton, Port Gregory and Horrocks are down but not out after Cyclone Seroja

Resilience comes in many forms. It’s a term used often in the footy world to describe those that find a way to continually front up on game day, regardless of the cuts and bruises their body wears. Resilience is also a common trait of those who work the land and the sea, where I grew up as a youngster. A tough bunch of men and women who keep fronting up regardless of the obstacles that stand in their way. Cyclone Seroja won’t easily be forgotten, its trail of destruction affecting the livelihoods of many, particularly those in Kalbarri, Port Gregory, Horrocks and Northampton, small but significant towns of my childhood. I grew up on a farm nestled on the banks of the Hutt River and spent so many hours of my upbringing waiting on the Port Gregory jetty for my Pa’s cray boat to come in after a day of pulling pots, at holidays and camps in Kalbarri and Horrocks and running around the footy oval of the Northampton Rams. To see the impact of the cyclone in these towns is heartbreaking, knowing the lives of many who call these places home have been so greatly impacted. Houses, pubs and shops flattened by winds never seen in these parts before. But if I know one thing about the great folk of these towns it is that they all have a truckload of spirit. They are the matter-of-fact type, who know how to work hard and get things done. A handshake carries meaning and going into “town” might be a two-hour round trip by the time you run into three or four people and catch up on the news. The sense of community is strong, something that I have come to love since moving back to WA and playing for the Northampton Rams. These people bear the knocks and bruises of tough times but continue to move forward with a “she’ll be right” attitude. “No worries” finishes most sentences, lending a helping hand just part of what is done. Adversity has struck but an inner strength will shine through and allow these meaningful townships to rebuild and prosper once again. We are all a product of our past experiences and my past has been heavily influenced by the great citizens of Northampton, Port Gregory, Horrocks and Kalbarri. Resilient folk, with big hearts and generous souls. It’s time that we all repay some of that kindness and generosity and help the people of these towns rebuild their lives. Chip in when and where you can, because I know that they would be the first to do the same for us. Please donate at appealswa.org.au. Harry Taylor is a two-time AFL premiership champion, playing for Geelong for 13 seasons. He is now the operations manager at the Great Northern Football League and will play his first senior game for the Northampton Rams when the GNFL season starts this weekend.