Recovery assistance underway to support bushfire victims

Published on 23 February 2023

Bushfire response Tara

Western Downs Regional Council is partnering with government agencies and charities to deliver comprehensive support for residents impacted by the recent bushfires.  

The Local Recovery Group has been activated to ensure impacted residents have all the support they need to move through this difficult time.  

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said it was vital residents were supported to recover and rebuild as quickly as possible, which is why the Recovery Group was already delivering a range of support measures.  

“Our region has endured significant bushfire events over the past few weeks, and while we remain alert and vigilant, significant effort to support victims is already underway,” Cr McVeigh said. 

“The key to moving forward is giving residents fast and easy access to the support services they need to recover as quickly as possible, which is why we have established two recovery hubs that are currently operating out of the Tara Neighbourhood Centre and Murilla Community Centre.  

“These two locations are serving as a central point for information and support for residents, with representatives from various agencies such as the Department of Communities, Housing and Digital Economy, Council services, and charity groups. 

“It’s also fantastic to see local organisations offering help where they can, such as Tara Shire State College offering to wash and dry clothes for those impacted, and Arrow Energy providing immediate water supplies.” 

Council is also facilitating the cleaning of roofs and water tanks contaminated by firefighting retardant, as well as refilling cleaned water tanks and allowing impacted residents to dispose of fire-damaged materials and household items for free at Council’s waste transfer stations.  

Cr McVeigh said while the Recovery Group acted swiftly to wrap around those in need, it was important residents were aware of the support initiatives in place.  

“We can’t assume we have reached everyone we need to – so we encourage residents to reach out to their local recovery hub in the first instance, so we can link them with the appropriate services and support,” he said.  

“While recovery is well and truly underway, we mustn’t forget that fire crews are continuing to respond to active bushfire events in the region.  

“The high fire danger is set to continue over coming weeks, so I urge all residents to review their bushfire plans and keep informed. 

“We are also updating road closures and openings in real time via Council’s disaster dashboard, so I urge residents to review the dashboard for the latest advice before driving through fire-damaged areas of the region.” 

For the latest information about current bushfire incidents visit the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services  www.qfes.qld.gov.au/Current-Incidents  

To make a bushfire plan, go here: Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (qfes.qld.gov.au) 

For more information contact Council on 1300 268 624 (COUNCIL), visit Council’s dedicated disaster recovery page via After a Disaster Western Downs Regional Council (wdrc.qld.gov.au), or visit the Disaster Dashboard via Dashboard (wdrc.qld.gov.au) 

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