Australia Day fireworks cancelled by Whitehorse Council due to bushfires
A planned pyrotechnic show to help celebrate Australia Day in Melbourne’s east has been put on the backburner. Here’s why.
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Whitehorse Council has cancelled a planned Australia Day fireworks show out of respect for communities struggling with devastating bushfire emergencies.
The council will hold a concert at the Whitehorse Civic Centre from 6pm on January 26 as planned.
Whitehorse Mayor Sharon Ellis said the council was “deeply concerned for the wellbeing” for people who had been impacted by the fires.
“Our thoughts are with our local government colleagues and all communities directly impacted,” she said.
“Council officers have been in contact with our council colleagues in the regions throughout this devastating time.
“The level of support required will vary, depending on the emergency and the level of community impact.
“We stand ready to assist once assistance is formally requested by bushfire affected municipalities.”
Cr Ellis said council stood ready to provide support, which could include staff resources, IT support and equipment, as well as coordinating recovery plans and operating relief centres.
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Cr Ellis said any decision to redirect funding for the fireworks to bushfire relief would be made at a council meeting.
Click here to donate to bushfire relief.