A draft Local Emergency Action Plan has been developed by the Kirwans Bridge Steering Group, which will now be taken to the wider community for feedback.
    
                  
                                                                
                  
                                            
                              
        Following a community meeting in May, the group compiled local insights into its draft LEAP.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        The document aims to raise awareness of emergency risks in the Kirwans Bridge area, and outlines practical actions to strengthen community resilience and recovery.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        Strathbogie Shire Council resilience project officer Fiona Feldtmann said the draft reflected the valuable contributions made by residents during the community meeting.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “This is the sixth LEAP developed by council, and I’m incredibly proud of the communities who’ve taken the lead in creating their plans,” she said.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “Local input is what makes these plans truly effective. In any emergency – whether fire, flood, or storm – having a community-driven plan is vital.
    
                  
                                                                
                  
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “The Kirwans Bridge community should be commended for their proactive approach and commitment to resilience.”
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        To take a step forward in finalising the plan, the group is encouraging locals to submit their thoughts online.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        Strathbogie Shire Mayor Claire Ewart-Kennedy praised the community’s involvement in the LEAP.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “Emergency preparedness starts with local knowledge,” she said.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        “The Kirwans Bridge community has shown great initiative in shaping this plan, and their efforts will help ensure a safer, more resilient future for everyone in the area.”
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        The draft LEAP is available for comment until 5pm on Friday, November 28.
    
                  
                                                                                                                                                                                    
                              
        Feedback can be given by visiting share.strathbogie.vic.gov.au