Preparing people, properties and pets is the theme for Central Goldfields Shire's first Emergency Preparation Expo in Maryborough, Sunday 4 May on the lawns in front of the Maryborough Railway Station.
Co-hosted by local emergency services including CFA, SES, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and Red Cross, this Expo will offer tips, tricks and methods for preparing for all types of emergencies including fire, flood, storms and power outages.
Local emergency services will feature prominently with trucks, trailers and demonstrations, making it a fun day for the kids as well.
Businesses that provide services or products that help people prepare themselves, their pets and their properties for emergencies, are also invited to book a free stall site to display what they can offer.
Central Goldfields Shire Mayor Councillor Grace La Vella said it's important for our community to have the know-how to take the necessary steps to prepare for emergencies, which could happen at any time.
"Emergencies and disasters are becoming more frequent, and we know from our recent experiences of flood in Carisbrook how devastating they can be."
"The more we prepare ourselves in calmer times, the better prepared our properties, pets and families will be when the time comes. And bringing emergency services together in one place is a very convenient way for people to find out how to plan, prepare and minimise damage and loss should an emergency arise."
"The kids can have a ball checking out the police cars and fire engines, while the grown-ups can learn how to better protect them when the time comes."
The free, three-hour Expo funded by Victorian Government's Safer Together, a program to reduce bushfire risk in Victoria, is open to everybody and will include a free BBQ and lots of activities for kids.
The Expo will run from 10am to 1pm on the Station Domain lawn area in front of the Maryborough Railway Station.
For details and site bookings, visit: www.centralgoldfields.vic.gov.au/EmergencyExpo
Bookings close 22 April.
