Joining forces for bushfire recovery
Explore Councils by state
Posted on January 10, 2019
The Central Highlands Human and Social Recovery Group and Queensland Reconstruction Authority Regional Liaison Officer Robert Da Fonseca came together for an update on the region’s recovery from last year’s bushfires.
The group combines government, private and not-for-profit organisations with a goal to provide targeted support to disaster-affected communities.
Deputy Mayor Cr Gail Godwin-Smith said it’s about providing essential services for people as well as physical health and emotional support.
‘People in the Central Highlands are resilient, and we are seeing communities getting together talking through things,’ she said.
‘But it’s important for people to know that help is available and the services this group provides have been utilised.’
Cr Godwin-Smith said ongoing support is critical.
‘I understand that the flow on effect from disaster can be delayed and sometimes the effects of trauma do not show until 18 months after an event, so it is important for us to monitor the need for support,’ she said.
Council’s Coordinator Disaster Management Glenn Bell said it might seem like the fires are over, but there is no reprieve for some.
‘Fires are still burning in the south of the Central Highlands,’ he said.
‘While these are mostly in remote terrain, there are people still defending their properties and they are getting very tired.
‘The key to support and recovery is a network of agencies helping each other, working together alongside council to assist people the best we can.’
Helpful resources in times of personal hardship can be found here.
Link to image. – Human and Social Recovery Group members Karen Peters, CHRC Coordinator Disaster Management Glenn Bell, Live Better Jenny Nuss, Coordinator Community Engagement Bernardine Frawley, Community Development Officer Annette Burton, Manager Connected Communities Suzanne Poulter.Front: Queensland Reconstruction Authority Regional Liaison Officer Robert Da Fonseca, CHRC Administration Assistant Kayla Holloway, Centacare CQ Carmel Marshall, CHRC Area Support Officer Springsure Caasi Holiga.