My Mum is doing okay having her neighbours dropping in. She's still without electricity and has limited water as all the pipes have burst. I have managed to call her a few times since and it's awful to hear the catch in her voice as I update her on the situation in the city including the death toll and injuries as with no power, she has no way of knowing what's happening out in the city.
I haven't heard from my Dad since, so I don't know how his house is, but I think he's ok. He's obviously going to be devastated as his business (he owns a bar) is crushed. To add more to this, the Hotel Grand Chancellor, the city's tallest building sits above his bar. There are reports that it is buckling.
My brother and sister in law have stayed in their house despite the damage. The kids stayed in their bed with them, completely traumatised.
My American cousin has been updating me and vice versa on Facebook as we hear from other family in Sumner and Taylor's Mistake. All alive, but two houses have been destroyed on Clifton Hill.
I finally heard from my best friend who is pregnant this morning. My form class at school witnessed me sob in relief as I got the text message.
Staff and students at school have been incredible even when I tear up. I'd rather be at work than sitting around waiting and watching the footage that rips my heart with every viewing.
Thanks for the messages of support, all we can do is wait and stay strong.