Update about storm clean-up process

14 February 2020

Avenel residents have been reassured that the clean-up from recent storm activity will occur soon. Mayor Cr Amanda McClaren and Hughes Creek Ward Councillor Malcolm Little have written a letter to all Avenel residents, which will be delivered from next Tuesday, to explain why the clean-up from the 1 February storm event has been delayed. “We understand that many people have been impacted and may feel that the Strathbogie Shire Council has not been responsive in efforts to clean up the significant debris after this event,” they say. “To provide some clear timelines, we envisage we will commence the clean-up in the next week. “We have not been able to start the clean-up earlier as we are seeking Victoria Government financial support under the National Disaster Fund. “As part of this, it is essential that we document the damage through taking photographs, videos and arborist assessments.” Cr McClaren and Cr Little said that early estimates have placed the storm damage at more than $500,000. An official inspection of the damage by an assessor will take place in Avenel and Violet Town on Wednesday (19 February) and the clean-up will start as soon as that is complete. However, both said there was no guarantee that the Council will be eligible for the National Disaster Fund and the Council will need to assess its approach in line with the assessor’s recommendations. “We know that our Avenel residents take great pride in their town and we apologise that they have been concerned about our approach and we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has made the significant personal effort to clean up on their properties,” they said. “We sincerely thank them for their patience whilst we complete this process”.