Recovery centre open at Tonimbuk

The remains of Tonimbuk residents Karen Shift and Billy Warner''s home. 191350_02

The Community Bushfire Recovery Centre for the Bunyip Complex Fire will be located at the Tonimbuk Hall from Monday 25 March 2019.

The centre, set up by Cardinia Shire Council, has been operating from the Bunyip Recreation Reserve since Tuesday 5 March providing support and information to residents from fire-affected areas.

Cardinia Shire Council’s Municipal Emergency Manager Jenny Scicluna said the recovery centre will be staffed by council team members and continue to act as a community contact hub – supporting the community and providing information to residents and businesses from fire-affected areas.

“Since opening the recovery centre more than 1,500 people have sought information and support through the centre and from the agency representatives at the centre,” Ms Scicluna said.

“Community feedback indicated a desire to locate the centre on an ongoing basis from Tonimbuk as a community contact point, and we’ll be set up at the hall from Monday.

“The community is encouraged to drop in, seek some information, or even just stop by for a cuppa and a chat.”

Ms Scicluna said council is forging partnerships and working arrangements with local groups in working together from the Tonimbuk Hall and in supporting the community.

Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Graeme Moore said Council continues its community recovery and support efforts in earnest.

“We’ve been devastated on behalf of our community, and our thoughts and actions remain first and foremost with our community and ensuring people are receiving the support they need,” Cr Moore said.

“I’m proud to be part of such a strong and supportive community – the offers of help and donations are absolute testament to this – it’s truly heart-warming.”

Council’s operational recovery role continues with crews clearing roads, working to replace drinking water and stock water, assessing road and safety signage, inspecting the impact on council and community assets, and assisting residents who have suffered building loss and damage.

“We’ll continue to work as hard as we can alongside our community as we proceed through this recovery process,” Cr Moore said.