Showgrounds offer respite after no go declaration

AN Emergency Relief Centre was set up at the Bendigo Showgrounds in quickstep time last weekend in response to the “catastrophic conditions” and subsequent fires around the region – despite the North Bendigo site being announced as unavailable as a Bushfire Place of Last Resort in December.

The Showgrounds are currently undergoing major works including the construction of a new multipurpose pavilion, a redeveloped arena and upgrades to entrances and fencing.

In a statement posted on Facebook by City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Thomas Prince last Friday evening about 7.15pm, the Lake Weeroona Ward councillor said an emergency relief centre had opened at the Bendigo Showgrounds.

“Please know, this is different to a Place of Last Resort,” he said. “Let’s use this for those who appropriately need it.

“If you, or someone you know is affected by the fires, please head to the Emergency Relief Centre.”

City climate change and environment manager Michelle Wyatt said in potential future emergencies for the remainder of summer, people who’d normally choose the Showgrounds as a Place of Last Resort should instead consider using the Queen Elizabeth Oval in View Street or the Canterbury Park Car Park off Simpsons Road in Eaglehawk.

“These two sites are the closest to the Bendigo Showgrounds,” she said.

“Bushfire Places of Last Resort should not be considered as places to relocate to when leaving early and Emergency Services and other support agencies will not be in place to provide assistance.

“If you choose to shelter at a Bushfire Place of Last Resort you will need to take your own food and water, protective clothing, pet food, a mobile phone, radio, first aid and medications.”

Up-to-date information, warnings and links to emergency support services can be accessed via the City’s Emergency Dashboard on the CoGB website.