State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland acknowledged this in a recent statement, paying tribute to the extraordinary response from local communities following the bushfires.
Ms Cleeland said the community-led support, particularly through donations, volunteer efforts and local co-ordination, had made a real and immediate difference for families and farmers facing immense loss.
“In the face of devastation, the way this community has stepped up has been extraordinary,” she said.
“Fodder donations and the co-ordination happening on the ground have been absolutely essential.
“That support is keeping livestock alive and giving farmers some breathing space at a time when everything feels overwhelming.”
Ms Cleeland also acknowledged the tireless efforts of volunteers, emergency services and community organisations across the region, but said, while the immediate response had been amazing, the road to recovery would be long.
“These fires have changed lives and landscapes forever. There is a real grief in this community, but there is also an incredible sense of care and determination to look after one another,” she said.
“Recovery doesn’t stop when the fire front passes. It will take sustained effort, advocacy and support to help people rebuild their lives, their farms and their communities, and we must stay with them for the long haul.”
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