The lost toys of the March floods almost warrants its own Instagram page.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Little reminders of the good times, treasured memories and the things that bring us comfort have been washing up on local beaches after a treacherous adventure at sea.
Johanna Wainwright discovered a sodden bear on Town Beach in Port Macquarie on NSW's North Coast last week and within hours after a call-out on social media, found the owner.
Kylie Keain's dog Lucy will be thrilled when the toy eventually makes its way home.
It was purchased for their beloved pooch by her daughter Georgie.
"We live on the North Shore - it has made quite the journey," Kylie said.
"Things have been tough here being so isolated but we're getting there because it's a wonderful community."
Perhaps one of the most extraordinary stories is that of the 21st birthday bear owned by Melissa Murray.
The bear made the long journey down a flooded Morton's Creek, then into the Hastings River before it eventually washed ashore on Shelly Beach on NSW's North Coast.
"Someone out there named Mel your very cheerful 21st bear has probably been down the Hastings River out to sea and back on Shelly Beach in a pile of driftwood. After such an ordeal she still has a very happy countenance," John Hopkins posted on social media.
It was a small gift but it meant so much to Melissa who unfortunately lost her home in the floods.
Melissa told the Today show that she had just minutes to escape the floods with her four-year-old son.
IN OTHER NEWS:
She said they managed to move most of their belongings to the height of the 2013 flood thinking it would be safe, but it wasn't enough to save everything they owned. All that was left once the floodwaters abated was the carport shed.
"We were very grateful to get something back," Melissa said about the bear.
Margaret Shannon said the teddy she found on the beach brightened a "dismal" day.
"I know its only a small thing; given so many have lost so much.... but this was a bright spot on a very dismal beach walk at Seven Mile at Forster," she said.
"Among the oyster leases, cows, plastic bins and tubs; we found the Wish Bear, and would like to reunite if someone is looking for him."
The owner of the bear is yet to be found, however Margaret did reunite the owner of a trophy also washed ashore.
"Our thoughts down at Forster go to everyone across the Port Macquarie region affected by the floods; we are thinking of you and are here to help."