If a community is tested in a crisis, the Laurieton and Dunbogan communities have exceeded all expectations.

Over 1200 people congregated at the Laurieton United Services Club on Friday, November 8 following the emergency warning to evacuate Dunbogan.

While that number dwindled as the southerly change took effect, around 100 people utilised the club as an evacuation centre for an overnight stay.

According to Dunbogan resident Janice Allen, that was when she was proud to live in her community.

"Our neighbours are here and the next door neighbour was safely tucked up at a friend's place," she said.

"Another lot of neighbours decided to stay (in Dunbogan) and they said they'd keep an eye on our house.

"This is the most wonderful community to live in.

"I've been here for 35 years and everyone is just wonderful.

"Everyone just got in and started doing things (at the club). We all just pitched in and everyone was very friendly and helpful," she said.

Mrs Allen said many people were offered a room and a warm bed by Laurieton residents.

"So people were taking up those offers and drifting off for a good night's sleep," she added.

There was about 60 to 70 residents who slept overnight at the club.

Ms Allen and her good friend John Davies got an evacuation order by mobile.

She packed her car with "the emergency things - photos, important documents, the computer and the dog".

She praised the club for looking after everyone.

"While we were a bit apprehensive about what we would find this morning (at home), I think all our homes are okay at this point," she said.

"We plan to stay here until that evacuation order is finished and will then return home.

"But I can't thank the club and club staff enough.

"For breakfast, everyone chipped in - John started cooking the barbeque - and everyone got fed."

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