Long-term aid tendered to bushfire victims

IT HAS been action aplenty over the past week or so as the fire threat to townships including Harcourt eased and the community recovery effort commenced.

A raft of government disaster assistance funding has been put on the table, while community groups, including food-rescue heroes Foodshare, quickly launched bushfire relief campaigns.

The federal and Victorian governments have promised to deliver close to $100 million in additional support, including $15 million to establish community recovery officers and recovery hubs in affected areas.

Eligible households without power for seven or more days within the past two weeks will also receive $2380 per week for up to three weeks to help them manage.

Premier and Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said she “wanted people to know” that help is available.

“Immediate assistance is already in place, including emergency payments, temporary accommodation, fodder support for livestock and mental health services for those who need them,” she said.

“Support can be accessed through local relief centres or by calling the Emergency Recovery Hotline on 1800 560 760.

“This is just the beginning, and more services will continue to roll out as communities need them.

“Recovery will take time. But no one will face it alone.”

Foodshare’s week-old Bushfire Relief Food Drive will continue until mid-February.

More than 35 yellow donation bins have been placed at major supermarkets across Bendigo, including ALDI, Coles, IGA and Woolworths.

Foodshare chief executive Michelle Murphy said the food drive is about coming together to ensure those impacted have access to food and essentials as they recover and rebuild.

“We’re working directly with the communities of Harcourt and Castlemaine to make sure people receive the food they want, when they need it, without overwhelming local resources,” she said.

“This recovery won’t be quick.

“Our commitment is not just for the immediate response but for the long road ahead.

“Every donation helps local families over the months and years to come.”

Residents are reminded that during future disasters the City of Greater Bendigo’s Emergency Dashboard – which provides up-to-date information, warnings and links to emergency support services – can be accessed via the CoGB website.