Campers residing along the Murrumbidgee River in Wagga Wagga are urging the community to understand the reasons behind their presence in this location.

Recently, a woman experienced a tragic loss during childbirth at the campsite, which resulted in her being hospitalized along with a surviving twin.

The state government has initiated an inquiry into the woman’s previous engagements with social services prior to the incident.

The death of the newborn has highlighted the struggles faced by individuals living on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River. Many have been in the area for several months, expressing that they have no alternative housing options.

The mother involved in the incident has since been released from the hospital, while the surviving twin has been relocated to another facility.

This heartbreaking event has sparked calls for increased support for the homeless population in the city.

Approximately twelve tents have been erected downstream from the Wagga Beach picnic area, which is situated below a levee that protects the central business district from flooding. This area is frequented by walkers and cyclists.

One resident, who requested anonymity, shared with ABC that it feels “degrading” when passersby along the levee stare, point, or laugh at the camp. “People should refrain from judgment and keep an open mind,” he stated. “What if they are there due to lack of options?”

This individual, who spent his childhood in Wagga, recounted a difficult upbringing that often left him confused about his emotions and actions, influencing his current circumstances.

He acknowledged that while conditions in the camp can be challenging at times, the residents try to support one another, noting that alternative housing situations could sometimes be worse.

Although children’s toys and a stroller could be observed at the camp, the man mentioned that there were generally no children living there.

Another resident pointed out that while offers of temporary housing have been made, they often come with stipulations that require individuals to seek long-term accommodation, which he regards as burdensome.

NSW Minister for Homelessness Rose Jackson explained that those in temporary housing are encouraged to develop long-term housing strategies, which may not always involve applying for rentals. “For some, it might include filling out eligibility forms for social housing,” she clarified.

Jackson emphasized that although temporary accommodations, such as hotels and motels, serve as urgent stopgaps, they are not suitable for long-term living. “We aim to facilitate the process, but we want to make it clear that remaining in temporary housing is not a viable solution,” she remarked. “It is detrimental for those individuals.”

Community members are rallying for solutions to the homelessness crisis. On Tuesday evening, approximately 40 individuals gathered at a community forum organized by the Wagga Women’s Health Centre to explore potential resolutions.

Vickie Burkinshaw, the president of the center, noted the diverse attendance, which included local officials, developers, and representatives from various social services. “The participants were all very engaged and eager to take action,” she remarked.

While many proposals are still in their infancy ahead of a follow-up meeting in two weeks, Burkinshaw expressed optimism about the community’s proactive approach. “We need to take the initiative, and the government can catch up,” she asserted. “While they are still in discussions, we can start implementing solutions, which was the prevailing sentiment.”

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, resources are available:

• Stillbirth Foundation: 02 9557 9070 (for research and education on stillbirth prevention)
• Red Nose: 1300 789 978 (24/7 grief and loss support)
• Emergency services: Triple Zero (000) for immediate assistance

Burkinshaw mentioned that some suggestions included collaborating with the local council and nearby residential complexes to provide water and sanitation services. Additionally, donations were offered to support the woman who recently gave birth, and representatives from the construction industry expressed interest in exploring options for temporary accommodations, such as “dongas.”

She added that community members living adjacent to the camp were very supportive and eager to provide essential services, including sanitation and waste management.

Despite the enthusiasm to take action, Burkinshaw conveyed a sense of deep sadness regarding the circumstances that led to this situation. “This has occurred on our watch, and it may have been the catalyst needed for substantial change,” she remarked.

NSW Premier Chris Minns has agreed to meet with Wagga Mayor Dallas Tout, who will be in Sydney for the Country Mayors Conference on Thursday and Friday. “It’s concerning because, as a prosperous society, we are witnessing an increase in homelessness and those living on the streets,” he stated. “The government is investing billions into addressing this issue, and we want to ensure that resources are directed swiftly to the areas most in need, particularly for women and families. We recognize that this is a devastating situation for a young family, and we are committed to taking measures to prevent it from recurring.”