Flood relief centre closes

THE City of Greater Bendigo emergency relief centre at the Bendigo Showgrounds has closed, which was set up to support those affected by this month’s flooding.

The centre catered to up to 280 people a night in recent weeks, many from Rochester and Echuca, before closing its gates on Thursday.

A statement from the City said most evacuees have either returned home, or “have been able to move into longer-term, temporary accommodation.”

City director Andrew Cooney said about 15 people were still at the centre earlier in the week, finalising their plans.

“As it became evident this flood event will have a long-term impact, evacuees were supported to find alternate accommodation or return home,” he said.

“A range of agencies have been based at the centre since it opened, helping evacuees with their physical and mental health, accessing State and Federal government funding, and finding somewhere to live.

“As the flood affected communities further north move into the recovery phase, these staff can continue to provide support in these areas.

“The relief centre was a short-term, emergency option. It opened quickly and can be re-opened quickly should there be a need in the future.”

Mr Cooney thanked fellow City staff who he said had worked tirelessly to ensure evacuees were cared for, comfortable, and had everything they needed, despite their trauma.

“The recovery process from this flood event will be long and I encourage our community to look for opportunities to volunteer and lend a hand into the future,” he said.

An Echuca Emergency Relief Centre remains open at the Echuca South Basketball Stadium.