Lorne revisits January evacuation to improve response

THE lessons of a summer emergency are being turned into a place for the future, with Lorne residents invited to help shape how the town responds when disaster strikes.

Locals rallied to support hundreds of displaced campers on 15 January when flash flooding hit the stretch of coast between Lorne and Kennett River.

While Lorne is fully open and welcoming visitors, attention has turned to strengthening preparedness for future emergencies.

The Surf Coast Shire is seeking feedback on what worked well, what proved challenging and what could be improved in future responses.

A short online survey is open via the council’s Your Say platform, with feedback to inform both council planning and a community-led working group focused on emergency response.

Cr Leon Walker said the January response highlighted the strength of the local community.

“We saw an amazing response from the town’s leaders, organisations and individuals during a time of need in January,” he said. “The care and generosity from so many people was inspiring.

“Learning from real life events is the best way to be prepared for the future. We want to hear what people thought went well and what could be strengthened.”

Council staff will also be in town on Thursday 23 April to speak with residents in person, with sessions planned from 10am to noon outside Riverbank Cafe on Mountjoy Parade, and from 2pm to 4pm outside Lorne Books.

The survey, which focuses on residents’ experiences, is open until 17 May.