Green Cross Australia arranged for me to attend the National Business Leaders Forum on Sustainable Development on Thursday and Friday. Green Cross are helping the Flowerdale community with the opportunity to rebuild in a safe and sustainable manner.
Green Cross was set up by Mikhail Gorbachev due to concerns of Climate Change causing more extreme weather events such as rising sea levels or a mega fire as was experienced on Black Saturday.
I was asked to present the story of Flowerdale to the conference and Green Cross also arranged an interview on Radio National with Fran Kelly. Click here to listen to the interview.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Village goes wireless
Last weekend the temporary village in Flowerdale was blanketed with wireless coverage. Donal from Nodecity came into the village and set up two Meraki wireless access points to provide a mesh network across the village. In layman's terms we have bounced the signal from the site office across the site to provide high quality internet access to the people living in the village.
The people in the village are very happy that they can now access the information and resources they need.
A huge thank you to Donal and Nodecity who provided their services for free and had the job done within a few days of hearing about the need for the internet access in the village.
For those that have an interest in technology here is a video that was taken at the time I first spoke to Donal about setting up at Flowerdale and how it all works.
The people in the village are very happy that they can now access the information and resources they need.
A huge thank you to Donal and Nodecity who provided their services for free and had the job done within a few days of hearing about the need for the internet access in the village.
For those that have an interest in technology here is a video that was taken at the time I first spoke to Donal about setting up at Flowerdale and how it all works.
NodeCity-At-FutureSummit from Nodecity on Vimeo.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Results of Election
The results of the election were announced at the community meeting last night. The committee members are:
Thanks to all who participated and the orignal Relief Committee for their efforts.
- Peter Auty
- Judy Baker
- Julie Bateman
- John Burgess
- Annie Robertson
- Ric Stubbings
Thanks to all who participated and the orignal Relief Committee for their efforts.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Update on Nominees for Committeee
The following is information and details on the nominees for the committee to be elected:
Sally Abbott-Smith
I am the King Parrot Ward Councillor and would provide the best possible outcome for Flowerdale.
Peter Auty
I moved to Flowerdale in January 2001, and live on our family property in Upper King Parrot Creek Road.
I joined Strath Creek Landcare group, initiated the Flowerdale Primary School Junior Landcare group and joined Flowerdale CFA the same year.
I have also been involved with the Spring Valley Recreation Reserve Committee of Management, Moore's Road Reserve, Hoof over Hills, Flowerdale CFA Juniors, and am actively engaged in a number of community groups.
I am committed to the vision of a safe, sustainable community, environmentally, socially and economically.
Julie Bateman
I have lived in the surrounding area all my life and Flowerdale for the past 20 years. In the past I have belonged to the Flowerdale CFA and I was on the fundraising committee.
At present I’m the communications person for the Flowerdale Community Recovery to keep residents and those who are placed elsewhere due to the fires up to date with information, events, activities and resources available.
Throughout my working career I have dealt with government and non government organisations obtaining information and resources needed to complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner. Also I have a wide range of experience in administration, secretarial and Personal Assistant positions.
Being part of the committee would give me an opportunity to work for the community to make Flowerdale an even better place to live and prosper for the future. Also to endeavour to meet all the community’s needs.
Judy Baker
I have involved in several committees over the years in Flowerdale including Captain of CFA for 6 years. Fireguard for 10 years and Fire in Schools.
John Burgess
I have been a Flowerdale resident for the past 17 years since I relocated from Sydney to take up a senior position with TNT. I have been married to Anna for the past 20 years, and we have both played different roles within the community.
I am currently President of the Spring Valley Recreation Reserve Committee of Management (SVRRCM), convenor and chair of the Moore's Road Reserve Committee of Management, and for the past 5 years MC and on the organising committee of the Flowerdale Australian Day event.
For the last 12 weeks I have concentrated on organising and networking to provide Flowerdale its relief Village.
I am focussed on seeing Flowerdale instated as a better community socially, economically, and, if possible, with even stronger community spirit.
Colin Edwards
I have lived in Flowerdale for 7 years after a life in Management.
I have served on ministerial advisory committees and well aware of the way bureaucracies work or should work.
I have a background in education and environmental management. I currently operate a small publishing business and have provided three web master services for community groups such as the Bolly Gum Adventure Park project at Kinglake.
I’d be the first to admit that I came to Flowerdale to slow down but to be involved in the rebuilding of a community after the ravages of Black Saturday is one of those once in a lifetime challenges. I would be more than happy to serve this community in any way that I can make use of my experience and skills. Whether it be on the management committee or any other tasks that will enviably follow.
It would be an honour and a wonderful challenge.
Christine Grant
My name is Chrissy Grant; I have been a resident of Flowerdale for 14 years. I have been married for 14 years and I have 2 girls. I am currently on 2 committees: committee of management for Jarara as the treasurer for the past 5 years, also on the Flowerdale Kinder Committee as treasurer for the past 8 years, I add that I am proud of where I live.
Prior to the fire, I kept most of the up-keep on the Jarara Building (which was where the Kinder was held). My children went to the Kinder and I continue to be treasurer of the kinder as a substantial amount of money is held for the continuance of the kinder should our enrolments drop.
I am an honest trustworthy person who believes in calling a spade a spade, I stand up for what I believe in, and am easy to approach and have many friends in the community.
Jessica Greig
Hi my name is Jessica Greig, I have lived in Flowerdale all my life, and my family have lived here for 24 years. I successfully completed my VCE at Yea High School and I am currently in my 2nd Year of Bachelor of Education – Primary Teaching at RMIT University in Bundoora. I am completing my practical placement at the Kinglake West Primary school where I will be until the end of this year.
I am very passionate about the rebuilding and continuing development of this wonderful Valley which I call home.
If elected on to the Flowerdale Community Recovery Committee I will do my utmost to fulfil any obligations required of me.
Karen Gunter
My name was put forward at the Flowerdale community recovery committee. I appreciate that I was nominated and believe I would be a good member of this committee as I am a part of the Flowerdale Kinder committee and Jarara community centre.
I am also a member of the Flowerdale tennis club and believe I could help to represent in these areas.
A lot of the long term Flowerdale residents would probably know me as I grew up in Flowerdale and still live here and I am still active here in the community. I believe I can help out on this committee and look forward to helping us build a back to normal or better Flowerdale township.
Tracie Hanna
I have extensive experience in Management on Committees.
Dayle Kalve
“Plan and work for a community even better than what you had”.
Many of us remember these words from one of the breakfast meetings in the early days after the fire.
Over the past 30 years I have watched Flowerdale change and grow until the most devastating changed of all in February.
The committee gives us the opportunity to work with government for the benefit of this community.
Throughout my working life I have worked with communities in Melbourne’s Northern & Western suburbs to help develop local decisions and bring about better outcomes for local people.
I am also experienced in obtaining funding for local projects and in building partnerships between all levels of government, non government organisations and local communities.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions on 57 802 904.
Dianne Linskins
Service to various committees, have been president for Waverley Little Athletics and life member. Secretary of State League Netball Association, Gippsland Storm.
Associate Secretary of Waverley and District softball.
Winner of Australian Sports Medal in 2000 for my work within the community for sports committees and under privileged children.
Chairman of committee responsible for 2002 World Masters Softball Tournament.
Implementation of Special Funds to enable under privileged children to participate in sports.
Working with Salvation Army and sourcing material aid for Flowerdale Community, including, Blazeaid, RSPCA. Sourcing grants through Rotary various other organisations. Responsible for distribution of vouchers for those in need. Sourcing Laptops/Computers for the community.
Main attributes I bring to the committee would be my unbiased approach to all matters and to all people with the community. My ability to stand up for what’s right and fair for all of those within my community of Flowerdale.
Vicky Parry
I am member of several committees:
Flowerdale Community House committee member for 8 years
C.F.A. Auxiliary member
Youth Group Coordinator
Steve Phelan
I have been the publican of the Flowerdale Hotel for over 8 years.
Annie Robertson
I am Annie Robertson. I am one of the three organizers of the Flowerdale Hoof Over Hills horse riding weekend which is held in October each year. Hoof Over Hills has taught me that the people of Flowerdale are exceptional in their thoughtfulness, and generous in their support, and time. For our event, no hurdle is to high, no ask is too great for our volunteers. It would be nice to give something back to my community. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Ric Stubbings
I have lived in Flowerdale since 1981. With my wife Sal, we have raised 3 children, the last of which finished schooling last year; all went to Flowerdale Kinder, Flowerdale Primary and Yea High School. We have been involved with many community groups over the years. Professionally I am a Civil & Structural Engineer and operate a home business. My main area of experience is structural design of buildings including drainage and fire services. I have also have worked in the past with water & waste water engineering and have done post graduate studies in that field. However most of you Flowerdalians will probably know me from my limited repertoire of tractor and road kill songs and insatiable appetite for jamming at the pub’s open mike sessions. I am a CFA volunteer fire fighter, play tennis, and keep some ducks and cows. I would hope my technical knowledge and love of our valley will be an asset to the recovery committee Feel free to vote for me
..(Spelt "RICK STUBBINGS" on the voting form. Don’t be confused..). Cheers Ric
Sally Abbott-Smith
I am the King Parrot Ward Councillor and would provide the best possible outcome for Flowerdale.
Peter Auty
I moved to Flowerdale in January 2001, and live on our family property in Upper King Parrot Creek Road.
I joined Strath Creek Landcare group, initiated the Flowerdale Primary School Junior Landcare group and joined Flowerdale CFA the same year.
I have also been involved with the Spring Valley Recreation Reserve Committee of Management, Moore's Road Reserve, Hoof over Hills, Flowerdale CFA Juniors, and am actively engaged in a number of community groups.
I am committed to the vision of a safe, sustainable community, environmentally, socially and economically.
Julie Bateman
I have lived in the surrounding area all my life and Flowerdale for the past 20 years. In the past I have belonged to the Flowerdale CFA and I was on the fundraising committee.
At present I’m the communications person for the Flowerdale Community Recovery to keep residents and those who are placed elsewhere due to the fires up to date with information, events, activities and resources available.
Throughout my working career I have dealt with government and non government organisations obtaining information and resources needed to complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner. Also I have a wide range of experience in administration, secretarial and Personal Assistant positions.
Being part of the committee would give me an opportunity to work for the community to make Flowerdale an even better place to live and prosper for the future. Also to endeavour to meet all the community’s needs.
Judy Baker
I have involved in several committees over the years in Flowerdale including Captain of CFA for 6 years. Fireguard for 10 years and Fire in Schools.
John Burgess
I have been a Flowerdale resident for the past 17 years since I relocated from Sydney to take up a senior position with TNT. I have been married to Anna for the past 20 years, and we have both played different roles within the community.
I am currently President of the Spring Valley Recreation Reserve Committee of Management (SVRRCM), convenor and chair of the Moore's Road Reserve Committee of Management, and for the past 5 years MC and on the organising committee of the Flowerdale Australian Day event.
For the last 12 weeks I have concentrated on organising and networking to provide Flowerdale its relief Village.
I am focussed on seeing Flowerdale instated as a better community socially, economically, and, if possible, with even stronger community spirit.
Colin Edwards
I have lived in Flowerdale for 7 years after a life in Management.
I have served on ministerial advisory committees and well aware of the way bureaucracies work or should work.
I have a background in education and environmental management. I currently operate a small publishing business and have provided three web master services for community groups such as the Bolly Gum Adventure Park project at Kinglake.
I’d be the first to admit that I came to Flowerdale to slow down but to be involved in the rebuilding of a community after the ravages of Black Saturday is one of those once in a lifetime challenges. I would be more than happy to serve this community in any way that I can make use of my experience and skills. Whether it be on the management committee or any other tasks that will enviably follow.
It would be an honour and a wonderful challenge.
Christine Grant
My name is Chrissy Grant; I have been a resident of Flowerdale for 14 years. I have been married for 14 years and I have 2 girls. I am currently on 2 committees: committee of management for Jarara as the treasurer for the past 5 years, also on the Flowerdale Kinder Committee as treasurer for the past 8 years, I add that I am proud of where I live.
Prior to the fire, I kept most of the up-keep on the Jarara Building (which was where the Kinder was held). My children went to the Kinder and I continue to be treasurer of the kinder as a substantial amount of money is held for the continuance of the kinder should our enrolments drop.
I am an honest trustworthy person who believes in calling a spade a spade, I stand up for what I believe in, and am easy to approach and have many friends in the community.
Jessica Greig
Hi my name is Jessica Greig, I have lived in Flowerdale all my life, and my family have lived here for 24 years. I successfully completed my VCE at Yea High School and I am currently in my 2nd Year of Bachelor of Education – Primary Teaching at RMIT University in Bundoora. I am completing my practical placement at the Kinglake West Primary school where I will be until the end of this year.
I am very passionate about the rebuilding and continuing development of this wonderful Valley which I call home.
If elected on to the Flowerdale Community Recovery Committee I will do my utmost to fulfil any obligations required of me.
Karen Gunter
My name was put forward at the Flowerdale community recovery committee. I appreciate that I was nominated and believe I would be a good member of this committee as I am a part of the Flowerdale Kinder committee and Jarara community centre.
I am also a member of the Flowerdale tennis club and believe I could help to represent in these areas.
A lot of the long term Flowerdale residents would probably know me as I grew up in Flowerdale and still live here and I am still active here in the community. I believe I can help out on this committee and look forward to helping us build a back to normal or better Flowerdale township.
Tracie Hanna
I have extensive experience in Management on Committees.
Dayle Kalve
“Plan and work for a community even better than what you had”.
Many of us remember these words from one of the breakfast meetings in the early days after the fire.
Over the past 30 years I have watched Flowerdale change and grow until the most devastating changed of all in February.
The committee gives us the opportunity to work with government for the benefit of this community.
Throughout my working life I have worked with communities in Melbourne’s Northern & Western suburbs to help develop local decisions and bring about better outcomes for local people.
I am also experienced in obtaining funding for local projects and in building partnerships between all levels of government, non government organisations and local communities.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions on 57 802 904.
Dianne Linskins
Service to various committees, have been president for Waverley Little Athletics and life member. Secretary of State League Netball Association, Gippsland Storm.
Associate Secretary of Waverley and District softball.
Winner of Australian Sports Medal in 2000 for my work within the community for sports committees and under privileged children.
Chairman of committee responsible for 2002 World Masters Softball Tournament.
Implementation of Special Funds to enable under privileged children to participate in sports.
Working with Salvation Army and sourcing material aid for Flowerdale Community, including, Blazeaid, RSPCA. Sourcing grants through Rotary various other organisations. Responsible for distribution of vouchers for those in need. Sourcing Laptops/Computers for the community.
Main attributes I bring to the committee would be my unbiased approach to all matters and to all people with the community. My ability to stand up for what’s right and fair for all of those within my community of Flowerdale.
Vicky Parry
I am member of several committees:
Flowerdale Community House committee member for 8 years
C.F.A. Auxiliary member
Youth Group Coordinator
Steve Phelan
I have been the publican of the Flowerdale Hotel for over 8 years.
Annie Robertson
I am Annie Robertson. I am one of the three organizers of the Flowerdale Hoof Over Hills horse riding weekend which is held in October each year. Hoof Over Hills has taught me that the people of Flowerdale are exceptional in their thoughtfulness, and generous in their support, and time. For our event, no hurdle is to high, no ask is too great for our volunteers. It would be nice to give something back to my community. Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Ric Stubbings
I have lived in Flowerdale since 1981. With my wife Sal, we have raised 3 children, the last of which finished schooling last year; all went to Flowerdale Kinder, Flowerdale Primary and Yea High School. We have been involved with many community groups over the years. Professionally I am a Civil & Structural Engineer and operate a home business. My main area of experience is structural design of buildings including drainage and fire services. I have also have worked in the past with water & waste water engineering and have done post graduate studies in that field. However most of you Flowerdalians will probably know me from my limited repertoire of tractor and road kill songs and insatiable appetite for jamming at the pub’s open mike sessions. I am a CFA volunteer fire fighter, play tennis, and keep some ducks and cows. I would hope my technical knowledge and love of our valley will be an asset to the recovery committee Feel free to vote for me
..(Spelt "RICK STUBBINGS" on the voting form. Don’t be confused..). Cheers Ric
Upcoming Events as at 25th May
UPCOMING EVENTS (so please mark in your diaries)
27th May
27th May
Playgroup, Flowerdale Hall “Play Bus visit with Sing and Grow” 10am
28th May
Public Meeting for Bushfire Victims, 6.30pm Flowerdale Hall. All persons who suffered loss or damage as a result of the Kilmore East/Kinglake Bushfire on 7th February for information on legal entitlements to compensation.
29th May
Special Community Meeting, 8pm Recreation Reserve, Spring Valley Road to discuss new voted in Flowerdale Recovery Committee and discuss key issues & what the community may want for the Community.
29th May
Rising from the Ashes, Yea Shire Hall, High Street, Yea 7.15pm. $25 per head, No Alcohol. Scared Weird Little Guys, Grand Wazoo, Lorin Nicholson. Book The Boite 94171983 (credit card only)
30th May
Emotional Freedom Technique Workshop, Yea Community House, 9.30am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-5.15pm. Open to all communities. Learn how to help yourself cope with any physical or emotional issues. Workshop Facilitator – Russell Cunningham. For information or booking call 57 973 070
.
31st May
31st May
Kinglake District Health & Wellbeing Healing Day, 11am – 5pm at Kinglake West Hall, phone Rhonda 57865247
2nd June
Steve Poltz and Greggory Page will be performing at the Flowerdale Hall, 7pm. Entry is gold coin donation. BYO drinks.
10th June
Playgroup, “Play Group Victoria, Fun Day in Whittlesea, New Horizons Church” 10am
12th June
Sunflower Day, 9.30-2.30pm in Big Tent, Kinglake Hub. Fun Games, Massages, Hair Care, Facials etc. Free gifts to take home. Bookings required phone Bronwyn Taylor, Global Care, 57 861 452 or 0408 929 594.
17th June
Play Group, Flowerdale Hall, “Fun, Games & Craft” 10am
21st June
Flowerdale Market will be held again at the Flowerdale Hall. Arts, Crafts, Fresh Fruit & Vegies, Plants & lots more. If you would like to be a stall holder the cost is $10, please call Alison on 57801223.
24th June
Play Group, Flowerdale Hall “Term Break Up – Hot Chips Lunch” 10am
19th July
Replanting at Flowerdale Primary School for the kids
16,17&18 Oct Hoof Over Hills
Steve Poltz and Greggory Page at Flowerdale
Good News on the Bridge and Meeting Update
Some very good news about the bridge was released by Murrindindi Shire today. Basically a temporary bridge will be put in place while works are being done.
See below the release from Murrindindi Shire:
"A community meeting will be held at 7.30pm on Thursday 4 June 2009 at the Hazeldene Bridge for interested members of the community to come along and discuss
the proposed upgrade works on the Hazeldene Bridge. Council’s Manager Assets & Infrastructure, Ian Ellett, will be in attendance to discuss the proposed works and to answer any questions.
As a result of the fire damage sustained to the bridge deck, refurbishment works are currently being planned. The proposed works will involve replacement of the existing timber deck and railing with a new concrete deck and new steel barrier rails.
A temporary bridge will be installed as part of these works providing 24-hour vehicle and pedestrian access for the duration of the works. Subject to cost, it may be possible to provide a pedestrian lane as part of the new bridge deck.
Other benefits are that the bridge will be safer for vehicles and pedestrians, less at risk to fire damage, will have significantly lower maintenance needs and require less traffic closures.
There has currently been no decision in relation to the appointment of a contractor so the exact timing of these works cannot be confirmed at the present time.
Any enquiries or concerns about these proposed works should be directed to Ian Ellett, Engineering Services Team, on telephone 5772 0333. Alternatively, concerns
in writing, should be addressed to the Manager Assets &
Infrastructure, PO Box 138 Alexandra 3714."
See below the release from Murrindindi Shire:
"A community meeting will be held at 7.30pm on Thursday 4 June 2009 at the Hazeldene Bridge for interested members of the community to come along and discuss
the proposed upgrade works on the Hazeldene Bridge. Council’s Manager Assets & Infrastructure, Ian Ellett, will be in attendance to discuss the proposed works and to answer any questions.
As a result of the fire damage sustained to the bridge deck, refurbishment works are currently being planned. The proposed works will involve replacement of the existing timber deck and railing with a new concrete deck and new steel barrier rails.
A temporary bridge will be installed as part of these works providing 24-hour vehicle and pedestrian access for the duration of the works. Subject to cost, it may be possible to provide a pedestrian lane as part of the new bridge deck.
Other benefits are that the bridge will be safer for vehicles and pedestrians, less at risk to fire damage, will have significantly lower maintenance needs and require less traffic closures.
There has currently been no decision in relation to the appointment of a contractor so the exact timing of these works cannot be confirmed at the present time.
Any enquiries or concerns about these proposed works should be directed to Ian Ellett, Engineering Services Team, on telephone 5772 0333. Alternatively, concerns
in writing, should be addressed to the Manager Assets &
Infrastructure, PO Box 138 Alexandra 3714."
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Update from Community Meeting
The community meeting held on Friday night was attended by Christine Nixon and Tim Bamford, which was very much appreciated. Tim will be leading the masterplanning process for Flowerdale on behalf of VBRRA.
The meeting was chaired by Leanne Plietsch, the DHS hub captain.
Christine outlined the process that VBRRA would follow in working with communities to develop an overall community masterplan for the recovery effort. A key part of the process is community consultation.
The possibility of showers and toilet blocks to be located at the southern end of the town for those residents living there was raised.
The election of the Community Recovery Committee was discussed and although there was a suggestion to delay for a further week it was decided to maintain the timetable for the election. Voting forms are available at the Store, the Hub, the Flowerdale Hotel and the Shop.
Ian Ellett from Murrindindi Shire attended to discuss the Hazeldene Bridge. There is a community consensus after the petition was presented to the Shire that the community did not want the historic timber bridge removed as it was one of the few things that survived the fire. A community group will be formed to meet with shire on site to discuss all matter raised by the community.
The meeting was chaired by Leanne Plietsch, the DHS hub captain.
Christine outlined the process that VBRRA would follow in working with communities to develop an overall community masterplan for the recovery effort. A key part of the process is community consultation.
The possibility of showers and toilet blocks to be located at the southern end of the town for those residents living there was raised.
The election of the Community Recovery Committee was discussed and although there was a suggestion to delay for a further week it was decided to maintain the timetable for the election. Voting forms are available at the Store, the Hub, the Flowerdale Hotel and the Shop.
Ian Ellett from Murrindindi Shire attended to discuss the Hazeldene Bridge. There is a community consensus after the petition was presented to the Shire that the community did not want the historic timber bridge removed as it was one of the few things that survived the fire. A community group will be formed to meet with shire on site to discuss all matter raised by the community.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Nominations for Flowerdale Recovery Committee
As we move from the relief phase into the recovery phase a recovery committee of six is being formed.
Nominations closed yesterday and the nominees are:
Options for return votes:
Post: Flowerdale Community Recovery, PO Box 2060, Hazeldene
Email: jbateman@y7mail.com
Voting Boxes: Hazeldene Store, Flowerdale Hotel, Recreation Reserve or the Hub
All votes will be counted on Friday 29th May by DHS Personnel and the new committee will announced at the Community Meeting, 8pm, Recreation Reserve, Spring Valley Road. Also discussed at the meeting will be key issues about the recovery of the Flowerdale Community.
The voting form is available below:
Voting Form
Nominations closed yesterday and the nominees are:
- Sally Abbott-Smith
- Peter Auty
- Judy Baker
- Julie Bateman
- John Burgess
- Colin Edwards
- Christine Grant
- Jessica Greig
- Karen Gunter
- Tracie Hanna
- Dayle Kalve
- Diane Linskins
- Vicky Parry
- Steve Phelan
- Annie Robertson
- Rick Stubbings
Options for return votes:
Post: Flowerdale Community Recovery, PO Box 2060, Hazeldene
Email: jbateman@y7mail.com
Voting Boxes: Hazeldene Store, Flowerdale Hotel, Recreation Reserve or the Hub
All votes will be counted on Friday 29th May by DHS Personnel and the new committee will announced at the Community Meeting, 8pm, Recreation Reserve, Spring Valley Road. Also discussed at the meeting will be key issues about the recovery of the Flowerdale Community.
The voting form is available below:
Voting Form
Publish at Scribd or explore others:
Red Cross Relief Fund - Welcome change of tack
The Red Cross Relief FUnd has issued its report on its activities for the first 100 days.
In the report it talks about the remaining $111m in the fund and advises:
The Panel recognises that the process of rebuilding and recovery is a long-term task that needs to be undertaken in close consultation with individual communities.
As a result, in allocating the remaining $111 million of donated funds, the Panel will continue to work closely with a wide range of groups and affected communities. This will ensure the continued allocation of funds meets the long term needs of individuals and communities.
There were concerns in the major fire affected communities that no funds would be available for longer term community projects, particularly in areas where things could be done more effectively on a community rather than individual basis.
It has also been difficult for communities to have input into the process. Let's hope that the recent report signals that there will be the opportunity for community projects that help rebuild in a safer and more sustainable manner.
In the report it talks about the remaining $111m in the fund and advises:
The Panel recognises that the process of rebuilding and recovery is a long-term task that needs to be undertaken in close consultation with individual communities.
As a result, in allocating the remaining $111 million of donated funds, the Panel will continue to work closely with a wide range of groups and affected communities. This will ensure the continued allocation of funds meets the long term needs of individuals and communities.
There were concerns in the major fire affected communities that no funds would be available for longer term community projects, particularly in areas where things could be done more effectively on a community rather than individual basis.
It has also been difficult for communities to have input into the process. Let's hope that the recent report signals that there will be the opportunity for community projects that help rebuild in a safer and more sustainable manner.
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