High on the priority list is of course making sure critical infrastructure including roads and water supplies are open and safe.

With the extent of this latest storm and flood event, that is no small ask given the size and relative remoteness of this coastal council area’s jurisdiction.

Support from the state and federal governments with emergency disaster relief funding is...a relief...but where it is spent now becomes a matter of priorities – and application forms.

For some in the community, those priorities are questionable.

The Eden chip mill’s jetty and loading conveyor – damaged by waves reaching an estimated 21 metres at times – is arguably the biggest single piece of infrastructure claimed by this storm.

It’s more private enterprise than council or government responsibility, but given the local timber industry’s contribution to the local, state and national economy through employment and international exports, having the loading jetty out of operation – for however long – is a considerable blow.

However, some in the community claimed it was a blessing.

Posting to Twitter, anti-logging group The South East Region Conservation Alliance called damage to the Eden jetty an “Act of God” and “nature fighting back”.

But also on social media, a person associated with SERCA wrote how much of a tragedy it was the Tathra Wharf sustained significant damage in the same storm.

The wharf is a beautiful icon, an integral part of the region’s heritage and rich social tapestry.

Yes it is a drawcard for tourists and fishos – who may or may not be contributing to the local economy by buying a coffee from the Locavore or handing over their gold coin entry to the museum.

Yes it deserves to be repaired and restored to its former glory.

But where do our priorities need to be directed? Which is more deserving of financial support? Of government and taxpayer input? Which contributes more to our community?

A penny for your thoughts…Email me at ben.smyth@fairfaxmedia.com.au