Conversations about life and community after a bushfire

Conversations about life and community after a bushfire

Published on 30 August 2019

Communities impacted by recent bushfires in the Bunyip State Park, Walhalla region and across wider Gippsland are encouraged to attend upcoming conversation sessions with Clinical Psychologist David Younger.

David Younger is a bushfire and natural disaster recovery expert with over ten years of therapy and clinical intervention experience. He runs a warm and compassionate practice assisting individuals across a range of mental health difficulties. He provides advice, training and development, and drives innovation in emergency management.

Sessions will explore themes of resilience, recovery and growth, and provide opportunities for community members to share experiences, seek advice and learn techniques to assist recovery.

Session details

Sessions will run from 6.30pm - 9.00pm on:

Saturday 7 September at Labertouche District Community Centre Thursday 12 September at Drouin Library Friday 20 September at Moe Library Thursday 26 September at Rawson Cricket Club

Local communities in Labertouche, Longwarry, Drouin, Walhalla, Erica and Rawson are highly encouraged to attend.

Entry is free and all community members are welcome, no RSVP required. A light supper and refreshments will be provided.

The sessions are being delivered in partnership between Baw Baw Shire Council, Cardinia Shire Council, Latrobe City Council, Windermere and the Department of Health and Human Services.

Quotes attributable to Mayor Cr Mikaela Power

“Several local and neighbouring communities were devastated by bushfires earlier this year, many of which continue to feel the impacts from the fires every day. These relaxed and informal sessions will be a great opportunity to learn, share and support each other as we continue the recovery process. We highly encourage anyone interested to attend.”

Quotes attributable to Clinical Psychologist David Younger

“During the first six months after a bushfire it is not uncommon for people to experience stress, distress and disruptions to their lives. There may also be emotions of disbelief, guilt, shock, uncertainty, anger or grief, even if your property was not directly affected.”

“As a part of this conversation series, we will explore the next phase of recovery including what to expect and how best to support one another and ourselves. During each session there will be time for discussion and to ask questions as well as to mingle and talk with each other.”

Image: Clinical Psychologist David Younger.