News Alert |

The City of Ballarat has offered plant and equipment and key emergency response personnel to the East Gippsland and Towong Councils at the heart of the bushfire crisis and is working closely with Emergency Management Victoria.

City of Ballarat Deputy Mayor Cr Belinda Coates said Council has also donated $20,000 to the relief appeal.

“We will also coordinate service agency volunteers to do bushfire relief appeal collections at our Summer events as well,” Cr Coates said.

Cr Coates said Council saw events, such as the upcoming three Summer Sundays, as an opportunity to assist with the ongoing efforts to fundraise for the communities so badly impacted by the bushfires.

“It is important we work with Emergency Management Victoria in a targeted approach to assist the East Gippsland councils affected, and we have also offered plant and equipment and key emergency response personnel.

“However, we must also balance personnel requirements for any local fire threat in order to respond appropriately as well if needed in our region.

“We acknowledge the efforts locally in providing immediate material aid such as water, toiletries, sanitary products and baby formula. We understand that these items are of high value currently to those impacted families.

“Further items may be required. However, donations of money is still the preferred method of aid in the immediate aftermath of these events.”

To donate, go to Red Cross online who are currently working closely in the relief centres in the impacted communities.