2009 Bushfire Page
Obtaining help and support
Thursday, 24 December 2009 12:54

It has been a difficult time for the community but most especially for those who lost property, stock and other precious things. We are all very grateful to the RFS volunteers and staff, the police, ambulance service and all those people who gave so much of themselves in the emergency effort. Thanks to all those involved.

The Michelago Region Community Association (MRCA) would like to help in the best way it can to bring some assistance to those in our community who have been affected by the fire.

We have set up a bank account to receive donations. These can be paid by direct credit to: MRCA Fire Appeal BSB 633-000
Account Number: 138922125

Alternatively, we have placed donation tins at the Servo, Shop and Inn.

We have also received other offers of help including fencing materials, counselling assistance, cartage, and labour for fencing. We will leave forms at the shop for you to fill in if you have something you can offer or you can user the web-based contact form (click here) or contact:  
Tony Robinson
0409 776 705
62359334
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Offers of assistance

NSW Government Department of Community Services (DoCS) can assist in cases where the principle residence has been damaged and only if it was not insured. There are eligibility criteria. The contact number is 1800 018 444. DoCS have already contacted those most severely affected.

The Rural Assistance Authority NSW on 1800 678 598 http://www.raa.nsw.gov.au/ offers low interest loans. The assistance comes in the form of loans of up to $130,000, at 2.56% interest per annum with a two-year interest and payment-free period, for the repair or replacement of property and infrastructure, including damage to pasture and crops. Transport subsidies of 50% for fodder, stock water and agistment up to $15,000 are also available for those affected by fire, if more than 30% of the property is affected.”

SupportLink is available to provide counseling, a listening ear or what you need in the way of help to deal with the emotional impact. Fires can affect different people in different ways. Call them on 0414 626 706.

Vern Drew has offered grazing land. Contact him on 62359142.

TJS Transport (Terry and Lyn) is offering free cartage, a truck and bobcat for clean-up 6232 9133 (call them after 4 Jan) or call Julie Gucci 6235 9336 (after 1 Jan). They can also give free delivery of building materials.

Last Updated on Thursday, 24 December 2009 13:03
 
Affected by trauma?
Wednesday, 23 December 2009 06:24
Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health website.

Immediately following a traumatic event

DoDon't
  • Spend time with people who care
  • Give yourself time
  • Find out about impact of trauma and what to expect
  • Try to keep a routine going – work, study
  • Return to normal activities
  • Talk about how you feel or what happened when ready    
  • What can you do right now….?
  • Do things that help you relax
  • Do things that you enjoy
  • Use alcohol or drugs to cope
  • Keep yourself busy and work too much
  • Engage in stressful family or work situations
  • Withdraw from family and friends
  • Stop yourself from doing things that you enjoy
  • Avoid talking about what happened at all cost
  • Take risks
 
Understanding and managing psychological trauma
Wednesday, 23 December 2009 06:16

The Australian Psychological Society has information on identifying and dealing with psychological trauma (view here).

"Many people have strong emotional or physical reactions following experience of a traumatic event. For most, these reactions subside over a few days or weeks. For some, the symptoms may last longer and be more severe. This may be due to several factors such as the nature of the traumatic event, the level of available support, previous and current life stress, personality, and coping resources."

It is important that you are watchful of your own psychological health, and that of friends and family, if you or they have been affected by the bushfire. 

If you are having trouble coping with the impact of the recent bushfire, you can contact SupportLink on 0414 626706.

 
Don't Panic: Be Prepared
Wednesday, 23 December 2009 06:07

The Australian Psychological Society have published the brochure "Don't Panic: Be Prepared".

Subtitled "Psychological Preparedness: Some helpful tips for managing emotions as you get read for the bushfire season", this brochure may contain some helpful information for those already impacted by the 2009 fire.  For others not so directly affected, this brochure contains some very useful information relating to your preparation for fighting bushfires this coming season.

Download brochure (PDF - 143kb) or view it at the Australian Psychological Society website.

 
Disaster Relief Grants
Wednesday, 23 December 2009 06:01

NSW Department of Community Services

Disaster Relief Grants for household contents and structural repairs – Information package (PDF - 113kb).

This PDF is also available on the NSW Dept of Community Services website.