With support from the community, agencies, organisations and volunteers, Council will establish two Community Recovery Hubs in Kalorama and Olinda, to provide ongoing support and assistance to local communities impacted by the recent storm and power outage.
Council will maintain its presence at the current community hub sites until the full transition to the new recovery hubs is complete. These hubs are expected to be up and running by Monday, 5 July.
Mayor of Yarra Ranges, Cr Fiona McAllister, said that the hubs would help with the changing needs of the community from immediate relief, to more medium and longer-term support.
"A big heartfelt thank you to the people and community groups of Yarra Ranges who have provided support and relief to those who were heavily impacted by the storm and flood event," Cr McAllister said.
"The outpouring of support has been wonderful, and I know it has really helped those in need, whether it be a hot meal, donation of much needed items, or even just someone to talk to.
"Feedback from the community meetings held so far and other correspondence with Council tells us that the ongoing needs from the community will be diverse and varied.
"These hubs and our community links will provide a central location for people to reach out and find the support and information they need, no matter their circumstance."
The Community Recovery hubs will be located at Olinda Community House and Karwarra Garden, and will provide information and support for the community in the following areas:
- Mental health and wellbeing support
- Referrals for people needing access to temporary accommodation
- Social connection
- Financial aid
- Insurance support
- AusNet claims
- Business support
- Clean up advice and support
These hubs will be open seven days a week between 10am-4pm and will be staffed by Council officers and other agencies where available.
Support will also be provided to other townships through Council's Community Links, with pop-up support from agencies as required.
