He and his wife, Linda Hurley, spent the day in Elmore, Rochester and Echuca, meeting with residents impacted by the flooding and learning about the response.
Mr Hurley was accompanied by officials from the Campaspe Shire Council, including outgoing mayor Chrissy Weller and incoming mayor Rob Amos, and councillors Tony Marwood and Colleen Gates.
“We were honoured to be visited by the governor-general and Mrs Hurley,” Cr Weller said.
“Their excellencies spent hours talking to residents impacted by flooding, volunteers and personnel from council, the defence forces and emergency services agencies.
“It was evident that they had a real interest in our situation and empathised with all they conversed with.
“It was generous of them to take the time to visit, and we thank them for their ongoing support.”
The governor-general’s visit is one of a handful of high-profile appearances by state and federal officials in the region in recent weeks.
They visited relief centres and listened to people whose lives had been turned upside down by the tragic floods.
They offered comfort and a friendly ear — a reminder that those impacted are in the thoughts of Australians across the nation.
Recognised during the visit were the many elements of the response: from the Campaspe Shire Council team, to volunteers and staff from emergency services agencies, service personnel deployed from the ADF, compassionate and hard-working members of relief organisations and not-for-profits, to individuals who are helping in any way they can.
“They are making a difference in people’s hour of need. Even amongst the damage and despair the response is a reminder of the good and the richness of spirit in our community,” Mr Hurley said.
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