New role created to accelerate bushfire recovery projects

One person has been tasked with engaging with the community, and supporting resilience projects aimed at speeding up the recovery process from last year’s devastating bushfires.

A new role has been created in the Southern Downs Regional Council to fast track and promote the region’s bushfire recovery efforts.

The dedicated Bushfire Recovery Community Development Officer, Nicola Fisher, has been tasked with the job of meeting with the community and providing a presence in the bushfire affected region.

Ms Fisher’s role will be to identify community needs, facilitate opportunities for development and support resilience projects in the works.

She said that the journey of recovery is complex, unique and lengthy and consideration of the impact of bushfire on social wellbeing has been at the forefront of her conversations with residents.

“Taking time for self-care, reaching out to access appropriate supports and staying connected with neighbours and community are key strategies which support recovery,” Ms Fisher said.

“I have really appreciated the time, vulnerability and honesty of residents and would welcome contact from anyone who would like to discuss bushfire recovery, community needs and suggestions.

“Alongside community consultation activities, I will also look for opportunities to promote bushfire readiness and build on community knowledge and capacity.”

The two- year position will begin with the meeting of residents in the most impacted areas of Stanthorpe, Applethorpe, Ballandean, Swanfels and Emu Vale.

Ms Fisher has visited over 160 properties so far.

Southern Downs Councillor Sheryl Windle said the appointment would provide additional support to those impacted by the bushfires.

“This appointment adds another layer to the support and assistance that is already being provided to our residents affected by the bushfires to ensure that they continue to receive the help they need to rebuild and get back on their feet again,” she said.

“The recovery process has required a team effort from all levels of government and a countless list of charities and agencies.

“In her role, Nicola will be a dedicated resource and point of contact to ensure those in need get what they need.”

The role has been funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments as part of the 2019 Queensland Bushfires Community Recovery Package under Category C of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Round 2 of the Category C Flexible Funding Grants program opens January 2021 and will assist in implementing projects aimed at driving recovery and building awareness.

Funding for the Flexible Funding Grants is available under jointly funded Commonwealth-Queensland Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements through Category C Community Recovery Funds, and is administered through the Queensland Government.