News

Emergency Services | March 19, 2018

Kealy - Community spirit shines in times of crisis

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP is in Hamilton, Penshurst and Gazette today to provide her support to the local community and thank emergency service members for their huge efforts in battling fires and supporting those who have lost stock and suffered significant property damage.

“It is in times of crisis that our rural and regional communities band together and I am proud to be here today to offer my ongoing support to local residents,” Ms Kealy said.

“There have been devastating losses with some local people losing their homes, hundreds of stock and thousands of kilometres of fence lines and the fire is not over yet.

“It is going to take time for some families, landowners and communities to rebuild, but together we will get there.

“A massive thank you to all emergency service members and volunteers for their ongoing dedication and work to protect our local people and property.

“We know that a crisis brings out the best in humanity, but it really is amazing to see so many CFA and SES volunteers working closely with local community members to fight huge blazes under terrifying conditions.

“We simply wouldn’t have the manpower to battle this weekend’s fires without our vital CFA volunteers and I sincerely thank them for their immense efforts.

“Thank you to each and every person who has contributed towards this outstanding community response and provided support to one another during this time,” she said.

Ms Kealy said ten local families have already contacted the Hamilton Relief Centre for emergency assistance.

‘I encourage anyone affected by the bushfires and suffering personal hardship and distress to call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226 to find out about support assistance available,” Ms Kealy said.

“Information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www.disasterassist.gov.au and the VicEmergency website at www.emergency.vic.gov.au/relief.

“I remind everyone to keep up to date with current warnings and incidents, and remember the best option is to leave early,” she said.