CHILDREN from Kendall Public School bravely hunkered down in the library overnight on Friday after being cut off by floodwaters.
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More than 400mm of rain had hit the region causing widespread "life-threatening" flooding across the Camden Haven and Port Macquarie-Hastings catchments.
Parents were advised at lunchtime Friday the situation had become volatile and to pick up their children if they were able to do so.
With the support of their teachers and school principal, children who were unable to get home relocated to the library which became their makeshift home for the night and were treated to a "hearty meal" of chicken nuggets, lasagne and fruit.
Residents living near the school delivered beds, blankets, pillows, food supplies and lots of support and well wishes for the little ones who were unperturbed by the "adventure".
Read more: Popular Kendall cafe, Miss Nellie's, lost
Thirteen staff remained on-site to provide care for the kids and keep them occupied with activities and games before bedtime.
By 9.45pm, anxious parents who were being kept updated via phone and Facebook were advised the children were settled and off to sleep.
They woke to a breakfast of Weetbix, toast fruit and milk and returned to the classrooms for stories, playdough activities, computers and games. All children were reunited with their parents by 4pm Saturday.
"I want to express how proud I was of all the children and how well they coped with the challenging situation," a spokesperson for the school said.
"My gratitude also goes to the staff who provided wonderful care and support to all the children and families. To all our school community and families - how wonderful you all are. Your support was amazing."
Staff remained in contact with the State Emergency Services throughout the ordeal.
Read more:
- Floods from the air: the devastation is heart-breaking
- Popular Kendall cafe, Miss Nellie's, lost
- 53-year flood record smashed at Wauchope as swollen rivers rage | photos, video
- Incredible footage of house being swept down river, bursting waterfall
- Flood lifeline for stranded, lost livestock
- NSW floods: A day of devastation in pictures
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