A series of free emergency preparedness and resilience events will be rolled out across Hepburn Shire in the coming months, thanks to full funding from the Victorian Government’s Community Recovery Hub and Local Government Support Fund grants program.
A highlight of the program will be presentations by Jamie Durie OAM. A nationally and internationally recognised horticulture and landscape design expert, Jamie will share strategies for reducing fire risk, conserving water and building long-term resilience through smart garden design. Jamie will be joined by Juliet Viney, local community emergency planning leader, and Nicole McGrath, CFA Community Engagement Coordinator.
Mayor Cr Don Henderson said the funding will allow Council to deliver a program that equips residents of all ages with practical skills to prepare for emergencies.
“Our community has been through a lot over the years. From bushfires to floods to droughts; we have seen it all,” Cr Henderson said. “These workshops will help us prepare for the worst so that we are ready for anything. The earlier Emergency Services Panel in Creswick was a great success, and we hope to host more events like these to reinforce the strength that comes from working together.”
The free program, tailored to meet different community needs and skill levels, includes:
- Working Dog Training School
- Emergency Services Expo
- First 72 Hours Workshop
- Pillowcase Workshop by Australian Red Cross (ages 8–10)
- Smart Apps for Emergencies Workshop (aimed at older adults)
- Jamie Durie: Drought-Proofing Your Garden (two sessions in Creswick and Trentham)
- Let’s Do Lunch?
Council says the funding from the Victorian Government ensures there is no cost for residents to participate in the program and no cost to Council. Events will be held in various locations across the Shire, with details and registration links available on the Emergency Management Events page.
