Committee for Lorne: A word from the Chairman

The first of the planned burns was completed with the small section of bush bounded by Charles Street, Francis Street and George Street over the past 10 days and with the larger Cora Lyn burn is still outstanding. The window of opportunity is beginning to close. With Easter fast approaching and Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) communicating with many local stakeholders, it appears likely that, subject to weather, ignition of the burn will take place on Monday.

In what is a real juggle to balance the effectiveness of the burn with the least amount of disruption to visitors and holiday makers, the FFMV team have been doing all they can to time their burn with consideration to all of the above. If all goes to plan and weather conditions are favourable, the burn will be complete by the end of the week, prior to the arrival of thousands for the Easter long weekend.

The Lorne Surf Club is leading its first indigenous program which is currently underway. They have established a community partnership with Gunbalanya Community School in West Arnhem Land and are bring down 10 senior students and two teachers for the week. The program is led by Heath Armstrong and 13 young leaders and advanced lifesavers aged 18- 30. Incidentally, this program has already had a profound response from the students and the school has seen a huge reduction in levels of truancy leading to more year 12 subject passes as well as providing 10 points towards graduation (10 points is equivalent to one final year subject).

Throughout the program they will learn about lifesaving and first aid, local indigenous history and culture, visit different areas of Lorne, and the surrounding areas; Queenscliff Marine Discovery Centre, have an urban experience in Melbourne, visit Bounce Inc in Essendon, the Eureka Sky Tower, and receive a private footy clinic from the Essendon Football Club – great things happening in Lorne!

Great to be able to report on a most productive discussion with Bob Osburn and his team from Vic Roads last week and it appears that we have in principle agreement to create a working group for improving the existing guidelines and implementation of signage on the Great Ocean Road with the short term focus being Lorne.

The passing of a member of our small local community always sends ripples of emotion and heartwarming wishes to those
affected most by the loss, and the past week has been no different, with the sad and sudden passing of Helen Stewart the devoted wife of Norm, for 55 years, loving mother of Tracey, Rod and Dee, mother in law of David and adored grandmother of Will, Charlie, Ollie (Dec), Tom and Lucy.

Helen died peacefully at home. Helen left behind a legacy in the Lorne Community matched by very few, an infectious laugh, a heart of gold and enthusiasm for life that will forever be etched in my mind – RIP Helen Stewart!

Ian Stewart
Chairman – Committee for Lorne