The small southern New South Wales town of Moulamein may be isolated by floodwaters, but that is not stopping a self-confessed "elf" from trying to make a little bit of Christmas magic happen.
Last month, rising floodwaters in the Edward River and Billabong Creek led to an evacuation order being issued for the town.
For two and a half weeks, water has covered all roads in and out, as well as the surrounding countryside.
Many residents are staying in nearby towns with friends and family, or in temporary accommodation, while others have chosen to stay.
Melbourne resident Heather Theodoulou has a strong connection with Moulamein.
Her husband Dave has camped there annually for more than 50 years, but it was only a week or so ago that she became aware of the devastation.
"His friends from Moulamein sent him a picture and said, 'This is where you camp', and it was under water," she said.
"I thought, 'How are these people going to cope for Christmas?'
"I have young grandchildren — how would we say Santa's not coming? Santa has to come."
Mrs Theodoulou found a social media page where Moulamein residents were sharing photos and keeping each other updated on the floods.
She posted a message saying she wanted the genders and ages of all the town's children, so she could buy each of them a Christmas gift.
"I know people are very proud, but I want to help them," Mrs Theodoulou said.
"I would like that they know people care about them and their children, that they're not forgotten."
Mum of four 'overwhelmed'
The offer has been warmly welcomed by the community, including from Moulamein mother, Jess Treloar.
She, her partner and four children evacuated the town and have been living in a caravan in the nearby regional Victorian city of Swan Hill.
"I was absolutely overwhelmed," she said.
"There's quite a lot of kids in Moulamein! To put that message out there, I was just like 'wow'."
Jess said given the upheaval, she wasn't as organised for Christmas this year compared to others, but she had managed a few things.
Mrs Theodoulou hopes to have her Christmas list sorted in the coming days.
"I intend to take my grandchildren with me to do Santa shopping, wrap the toys, label the toys, put them in the trailer and my husband will deliver them," she said.
RFS on stand-by for deliveries
Mrs Theodoulou said contact had already been made with the local Rural Fire Service, who may have to complete the delivery due to the flooding.
Despite the logistical challenges and the looming Christmas deadline, Mrs Theodoulou is confident the presents will get to Moulamein in time.
"It will come together," she said.
"When I'm on a mission, I'm on a mission.
"I don't want any child disappointed — it's my goal that they just know they're not forgotten."
