Free workshop to sharpen resilience

RESIDENTS of Ballan, Myrniong, Gordon, Mount Egerton, Korweinguboora, Blackwood, Dales Creek, Greendale and surrounding communities are invited to attend a free, interactive chainsaw workshop next month.

The initiative is part of the Moorabool Community Resilience Project, which aims to strengthen the capacity of communities that were impacted by flooding in October 2022.

“Before, during and after all types of emergencies, the safe use of chainsaws is an integral element to ensure residents can help themselves prepare their properties,” Moorabool Shire mayor Cr Paul Tatchell said.

“Chainsaws are used to clear vegetation for access to properties, respond to any trees that may fall on roads or property during a flood, storm or fire, and to assist with cleaning up after emergencies.

“Ensuring the community can gain confidence in using a chainsaw safely will help build their resilience and promote a sense of community and allow them to gain some control over their own circumstances.”

The demonstration will cover safe and effective chainsaw techniques and maintenance and will be led by Ceilidh Meo.

“Ceilidh Meo, of ZAP Studio, has been conducting workshops on the safe use and maintenance of chainsaws for beginners for the past few years,” Cr Tatchell said.

“Ceilidh began these workshops after realising many people did not know how to use chainsaws to collect wood for wood-fired heating.

“This developed into chainsaw workshops for storm recovery, working alongside councils to promote the safe use of chainsaws in preparedness, response and recovery to emergencies.”

The workshops will be held on Sunday 4 May at Ballan Hall, with a women’s-only workshop beginning at 10.30am and a second workshop open to everyone beginning at 1.30pm.

Lunch for all participants will be provided from 12.30pm.

For more information, visit the Moorabool Shire Council website.