Healesville’s fire-prone community quizzed as part of Victorian bushfire inquiry
A statewide inquiry on the devastating 2019/20 bushfire season is coming to the Yarra Valley. And authorities want you to have your say. Find out how.
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A “crucial” statewide inquiry will stop in Healesville as part of an investigation into this bushfire season.
Fire-prone communities from across the Yarra Ranges are invited to meet with Emergency Management and express their views on this past season at The Memo, on Monday, March 16.
Earlier this year, the State Government launched the independent investigation into the 2019-2020 fire season, which will examine the preparedness and response to the recent fires, and also review relief and recovery efforts.
Emergency Management inspector-general Tony Pearce said it was important to gather a range of experiences and views, with important information to be gained by people who live in fire-prone areas.
“I encourage anyone who is keen to share their experience regarding bushfire preparedness and response to do so through any of the multiple avenues open for people to provide their views,” Mr Pearce said.
“In addition to attending a community meeting, individuals and organisations can contribute their opinion or share their personal experiences through submissions addressing the inquiry’s Terms of Reference.”
Yarra Ranges Mayor Richard Higgins said the Healesville session would be a great opportunity for community members to share their thoughts or concerns.
“This inquiry is crucial in identifying how the community is feeling about the effectiveness of the preparedness and response to the 2019-20 fire season in Victoria,” Cr Higgins said.
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“Anyone with a view on, or experience with the recent fire season is strongly encouraged to either come along to the session in Healesville or to make a submission online or via mail.”
Council will also be making a submission to the inquiry.
Earlier this year Emergency Services MP Lisa Neville said the inquiry would investigate fires and other major emergencies and provide advice to help improve the government’s future response.
“As we move into supporting communities through the recovery stage, the Inspector General will help ensure that we have all the appropriate measures in place to protect lives and property,” Ms Neville said.
A report on the investigation is due to back to the Government by June 30.