Christian church leaders have called for people to honour rescuers, offer more compassion to refugees and spread love this Easter long weekend.
"We have seen in recent days, those who selflessly rescue people from cyclone storm and flood. They have our admiration, gratitude and thanks," Sydney Anglican Archbishop Dr Glenn Davies said on Friday.
"How welcome are the brave faces of those who appear just in time to bring them to safety?" he said, comparing the work of rescuers in the flood waters of NSW and Queensland to that of Jesus' sacrifice which is commemorated over the Easter holiday.
Similarly the Catholic Archbishop of Sydney said the holiday was a time to look past problems facing the world and instead believe in hope.
"There have been seismic shifts in the politics of the nations, fears for the planet, instability in the world economy, a tense security situation," Sydney's Catholic Archbishop Anthony Fisher said.
"Easter speaks of hope. Hope for a world of more than blind natural forces and blinding human wilfulness, a world of no more hurt from hate or indifference," Mr Fisher said.
The Uniting Church Australia President Stuart McMillan also made reference to overseas conflict in his address, calling for greater compassion towards refugees.
"It's our chance as a nation to rise above the narrowness of our media and politics and defeat hatred and injustice with love and compassion," Mr McMillan said.
Meanwhile, NSW surf lifesavers pleaded with people spending Good Friday on the beach to watch out for one another and not take risks as the state enjoys a reprieve from rain and cold weather.
Surf Life Saving NSW operations manager Andy Kent says already this season, more than 3500 rescues have been performed and at least 10 people have drowned since January after getting into difficulties.
"Please take the time to assess the conditions before heading out," he said.
"If you think it's beyond your capabilities, don't go in the water."
Mr Kent urged beachgoers to swim at patrolled locations and wear a life jacket while rock fishing, boating or kayaking.
