State service to commemorate 2009 bushfires

THE state government will host a commemoration service next month to acknowledge the significant impact of the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires.

The 10-year anniversary will be a time for reflection as Victorians remember the catastrophic bushfires and the loss of 173 lives.

Many more were injured and lost their homes, with the memories of these events having long lasting impacts on a number of communities.

The state anniversary commemoration will be held on February 4 at the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens.

This will be in addition to a number of community commemoration services organised locally with support from the state government, which is also providing funding for various 10 Year Anniversary projects including:• A Community Arts Grants Program • A Commemoration and Community Development Grants Scheme • Targeted teaching and learning support for schools, and • Expanded mental health and psychological support services.

Consultations have been undertaken with survivors and the bereaved community about the state anniversary commemoration, and more details about the event will be released soon.

“These horrific events still impact on many communities and it is important we allow everyone to commemorate this anniversary in their own way,” Police and Emergency Services Minister Lisa Neville said.

“Holding this commemoration on this day allows for individuals to have time for themselves or attend other community events during the week.

“We need to honour those who died, those who lost homes and those brave men and women who fought to save lives and homes.

“Over the past few months we have been speaking with, and getting feedback from, family and friends of those who died, the bushfireaffected communities, and emergency services personnel about this commemoration service and other initiatives to ensure they meet community expectations.”

For more information and updates, head to vic.gov.au/2009-bushfires.