Free Public Event to Assist with Bushfire Recovery and Support

 

It’s been almost 11 months since devastating bushfires tore through Lithgow, Clarence and Dargan, leaving many properties impacted and people in need of support.

To assist with the ongoing recovery efforts, Lithgow City Council is hosting a Bushfire Recovery and Community Day on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th December at the Civic Ballroom, Lithgow.

This free public event will bring together community, emergency and recovery services all under one roof – making it easy for everyone to access the support and information they need.  

The same event program will run across both Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 3pm. This inaugural event will feature:

Q&A panel with RFS, Police, mental health specialists, SES, Lithgow City Council and the Red Cross. Landscape recovery & local wildlife update. A personal video message to the Lithgow community from Shane Fitzsimmons, Commissioner Resilience NSW. Local emergency services presenting on bushfire preparation. Bushfire recovery support services and legal Information on building and renovating in bushfire prone areas. Children’s activities and a sausage sizzle provided by Lithgow Lion’s Club.

Lithgow City Mayor Ray Thompson encourages everyone in the community to attend the event to ensure they stay informed and connected.

“When we live near the bush, preparing for bushfire emergencies should be a way of life,” Mayor Thompson said. “I urge everyone to go online, book tickets and get yourself and your family there. You will leave feeling better equipped for any further emergency events. You’ll also have a greater sense of connection with local services and understanding of the support available to you.”

Deputy Captain of Clarence / Dargan Rural Fire Brigade Henry Kirwan said although this year’s fire season will most likely be quieter, now is not the time to be complacent.

“People have a false sense of security that it’s happened and won’t happen again,” Mr Kirwan said. “Now is an excellent time to get your property in order and get into a yearly routine of preparing for the season ahead. The bush will regenerate and if all the little property preparation jobs are forgotten then in six to seven years’ time it can lead to problems.

“People’s homes are beginning to return to normal as they rebuild but the emotional recovery is important too. They need to know there is support available.”

Due to COVID Safe protocols, registration via the ticketing system is essential to allow for COVID-19 contact tracing.

To register, please go to www.council.lithgow.com or phone Rachel Nicoll on (02) 6354 9999. Please book ASAP as tickets are limited to ensure physical distancing can be met.

If you would like to book a stall to exhibit a relevant bushfire recovery, wellbeing or bushfire protection product or service please contact Rachel Nicoll on (02) 6354 9999.

For further event enquiries please contact Community Recovery Officer Rachel Nicoll at [email protected]