Bushfire Community Recovery Centre at Tonimbuk from Monday 25 March

The Community Bushfire Recovery Centre, set up by Cardinia Shire Council with the full support of relevant agencies, has been operating from the Bunyip Recreation Reserve since Tuesday 5 March providing support and information to residents from fire-affected areas.

Cardinia Shire Council’s Municipal Emergency Manager Jenny Scicluna said the recovery centre will be staffed by Council team members and continue to act as a community contact hub – supporting the community and providing information to residents and businesses from fire-affected areas.

“Since opening the recovery centre more than 1,500 people have sought information and support through the centre and from the agency representatives at the centre,” Ms Scicluna said.

“Community feedback indicated a desire to locate the centre on an ongoing basis from Tonimbuk as a community contact point, and we’ll be set up at the hall from Monday.

“The community is encouraged to drop in, seek some information, or even just stop by for a cuppa and a chat.”

Ms Scicluna said Council is forging partnerships and working arrangements with local groups in working together from the Tonimbuk Hall and in supporting our community.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Graeme Moore said Council continues its community recovery and support efforts in earnest.

“We’ve been devastated on behalf of our community, and our thoughts and actions remain first and foremost with our community and ensuring people are receiving the support they need.

“I’m proud to be part of such a strong and supportive community – the offers of help and donations are absolute testament to this – it’s truly heart-warming,” Cr Moore said.

Council’s operational recovery role continues with crews clearing roads, working to replace drinking water and stock water, assessing road and safety signage, inspecting the impact on Council and community assets, and assisting residents who have suffered building loss and damage.

“We’ll continue to work as hard as we can alongside our community as we proceed through this recovery process,” Cr Moore said.

Tonimbuk Hall

1900 Gembrook-Tonimbuk Rd

Open Weekdays, 10am – 3pm (from Monday 25 March 2019)

Please note: Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is no longer located at the recovery centre. To contact DHHS for case support or financial assistance, call 1800 560 760.

Community recovery information is available at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/recovery