During the meeting, held on Wednesday, January 21, council formally acknowledged the significant and far-reaching impacts of the recent bushfires, including the loss of homes, livelihoods, livestock, wildlife, local business activity and tourism, as well as prolonged community isolation.
Council expressed its deep sadness at the loss of Murrindindi Shire resident Maxwell Hobson, and extended condolences to his family, friends and the Terip Terip community.
“We stand with those who are grieving, and we honour the life of Maxwell Hobson,” Mayor Damien Gallagher said.
Council also recognised the resilience and care shown by local communities, thanking those who had contributed to the Murrindindi Disaster Recovery Fund, or who had provided goods, services, labour, equipment and other support.
Efforts by emergency services, volunteers and partner agencies were also acknowledged, with council reaffirming its commitment to stand alongside the community throughout the long road to recovery ahead.
During the meeting, council also passed an urgent motion calling for state and federal governments to continue to work in genuine partnership with council, and recognise council’s role as the designated recovery lead and the importance of community-led, locally informed decision-making.
Council is advocating, as well, for explicit priority and targeted support for the recovery of the agriculture sector and local economy, and recognition and encouragement of ongoing public support, including financial donations, material aid, volunteer labour and skilled assistance.
“Recovery must be community‑led, locally informed and strongly supported by all levels of government. This will be a long journey, but we will walk it together,” Cr Gallagher said.
“Our community is feeling the impact of these devastating bushfires, and we are determined to remove every possible barrier to a fast and effective recovery.
“Recovery on this scale requires rapid action, and these changes allow us to engage the right services at the right time, and our priority is supporting impacted residents, restoring essential infrastructure and helping our towns get back on their feet.”
