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Baw Baw Shire Council supports community from wild storms offering support for property damage assessment and relief payments

Baw Baw Shire Council provides ongoing support post-storm, offering damage assessment, relief payment guidance, and access to facilities like showers and WiFi. Road clearing prioritised despite power line challenges.

By news@gippsland - 15th February 2024 - Back to News

Tuesday afternoon's storm event has taken an enormous toll on residents and towns in the Baw Baw Shire and council will continue to work with those who have been impacted. The Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) Personal Hardship Assistance Program (PHAP) relief payments are available for eligible community members whose homes have been damaged by the storms in Victoria. You are eligible for a relief payment if:

• Your principal place of residence is in an evacuation warning area, or storms have damaged your home
• You have unmet immediate relief needs

Please note that these payments are not available for people who are experiencing power outages alone. If you think you may be eligible for a relief payment, please call the Vic Recovery Hotline: 1800 560 760 (Press 9 for an interpreter if needed).

Tuesday's storm in Baw Baw Shire prompts council's ongoing support efforts for affected residents. Services include damage assessment, relief payments guidance, and access to facilities for showers, charging devices, and WiFi

Waste and food soil disposal

To support the community with the impacts of the storm event, Baw Baw Shire Council will offer storm affected residents the opportunity to dispose of up to 3 cubic metres of acceptable green waste - free of charge.

Residents who have been impacted by loss of power for an extended period of time and do not have capacity to dispose of food spoils in their existing waste service may also dispose of up to 2 x 80L garbage bags of general household waste at the transfer stations - free of charge.

The above will be accepted at all four transfer stations across the Shire from Friday 16 February 2024 until Sunday 25 February 2024. Please note, standard Transfer Station opening times apply.

• Trafalgar Transfer Station - Sat to Mon: 10.00am to 4.00pm
• Erica Transfer Station - Mon, Wed, Sun: 12.00pm to 4.00pm
• Lardner Transfer Station - Every day: 10.00am to 4.00pm
• Neerim South Transfer Station - Fri and Sun: 10.00am to 4.00pm

Acceptable green waste includes tree debris, branches, foliage and general green waste. Maximum size limit for a large branch is 30cm round and 1m long. No large tree stumps will be accepted.

Flexible waste disposal

To cater for different trailer sizes, residents can either drop off 3 cubic metres at once or in smaller loads over multiple drop offs. Green waste must be delivered in residential vehicles and trailers. Commercial vehicles will be charged at the standard rate.

This support for the community is open to all Baw Baw Shire residents who have been impacted by the storm event, whether they are the property owner or a tenant. As proof of residency, people are asked to bring a driver's licence, plus a rates notice or utility bill showing their address. Residents are asked to please be patient as the transfer stations will be busier than usual.

Device charging and WIFI

The Warragul Leisure Centre is open for those who have been affected by the storm. Here people can use showers (please bring your own toiletries and towels), charge their devices, and access WIFI. For those who need it, the Leisure Centre will be accessible during its usual hours of operation, which are:

• Monday - Thursday: 6.00am - 8.30pm
• Friday: 6.00am - 7.00pm
• Saturday - Sunday: 8.00am - 7.00pm

In Thorpdale, four portable showers have been installed at the Thorpdale Public Hall for any residents who need them. In Trafalgar, the showers and toilets in the Turra Pavilion umpire change rooms will be available for the community to use on Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 8am to 6pm. Portable showers are also being considered for other locations and more information will be available soon.

The Drouin, Neerim South and Warragul Myli Library locations also have their doors open for people to come in and access the free WIFI, or to charge their devices. The library opening hours are below:

Drouin Library

• Monday to Friday: 9.30am - 5.30pm
• Saturday: 9.30am - 12.00pm

Neerim South Library

• Friday: 1.00pm - 5.00pm
• Saturday: 10.00am - 12.00pm

Warragul Library

• Monday: 9.30am - 6.00pm
• Tuesday and Wednesday: 9.30am - 7.00pm
• Thursday and Friday: 9.30am - 6.00pm
• Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm

Thorpdale impacts and support

Gippsland Water has urged Thorpdale residents to put off any non-essential water use. This is due to a power outage which is impacting capabilities at Thorpdale pump station. Four portable showers have been organised and are located at the Thorpdale Public Hall. Those who use these are reminded to pack their own toiletries and towels. Latrobe City Council has also made shower facilities available at the Churchill Leisure Centre.

Thorpdale Pop-up BBQ and Information Session - Sat 17 February

Baw Baw Shire Council will host a pop-up information session and BBQ from 9.00am to 1.00pm on Saturday 17 February at the Thorpdale Community Hall.

The sessions will offer the opportunity for residents of the storm-impacted community to connect directly with council and each other. It will be a chance to ask questions and receive updates directly from council officers, and for council to gather and record information from residents who may need ongoing care.

Power outages

We are aware of the huge imposition that the loss of power is causing our residents and encourage people to view the Ausnet power tracker for the latest updates. Although the interactive map is not currently available, they are providing a list of suburbs and estimated time of assessment or power restoration. Please visit Power Outage Tracker website.

In the cases of prolonged power outages, Prolonged Power Outage Payments (PPOPs) may be available. These are administered by electricity distributors. Residents are advised to contact their electricity company directly for more information.

Council service impacts and demand

Council's phone lines have been restored and residents can once again reach customer service again by phoning 5624 2411. Customer Service has also activated its 'Storm Report Sam', a chat bot designed to allow residents to speedily notify council of damage to community assets.

You can also report storm-related damage via the Snap Send Solve app on your phone. Due to the volume of requests, residents are encouraged to use online reporting methods if they can. Including photos is particularly helpful to assist crews in prioritising the most urgent requests.

As of 10.00am on Friday 16 February council had received more than 340 phone calls related to the storm and is managing more than 200 requests for assistance, in addition to other business-as-usual requests. We are prioritising these requests based on urgency and impact and will work through them as quickly as possible.

Blocked roads

Council officers and contractors are actively working to clear any blocked road across the Shire, however unfortunately, progress is being hindered by the presence of downed power lines. When council comes across these hazards, the protocol is to report these to Ausnet and close the affected roads for safety reasons. A list of blocked roads that council is currently aware of includes:

• Cemetery Road, Yarragon
• Yarragon Leongatha Road, Yarragon South
• Wagner Road, Neerim South

Due to limited network availability, council crews are unable to utilise their usual programs and systems for logging jobs. As a result, the process of collating data is slower than usual.

Council-run facilities and pools

We are also aware that some council run facilities have experienced damage due to the severe wind and rain, including the Drouin Recreation Reserve, including its social club rooms, and the Trafalgar Recreation Reserve.

Council will work with the local clubs to assess the damage and get remedial works underway. Council's outdoor pools in Thorpdale and Trafalgar will also be closed due to power outages and we will notify the community when they reopen.

Food safety during an emergency

When the fridge turns off during an extended power outage, food may not be safe to eat. Cold food remains safe to eat while it's still cool to touch (less than 5 degrees Celsius) and for up to four hours after this. It should then be cooked and eaten or thrown away. Keep your food cold and fresh by:

• Keeping fridge and freezer doors closed and only opening them when necessary
• Moving refrigerated food to the freezer
• Covering cold and frozen food with an insulating blanket
• Checking the internal temperature of food items with a food thermometer before eating

If in doubt, throw it out. Council will continue to provide updates to the community as the situation across the Shire changes.

Pictures from Baw Baw Shire Council website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Bass Coast Shire Council has launched Energy Resilient Community Hubs and an Emergency Dashboard to boost preparedness, strengthen local resilience, and keep communities safe, connected, and supported during emergencies and power outages.
• Darren Chester backs Stratford runner's 300 km charity challenge supporting free 3D hands in Sale
  Stratford ultra-runner Chris Dixon will run 300 km in Sale to raise $50,000 for Free 3D Hands, supported by Darren Chester and local runners backing the inspiring community event.
• Darren Chester praises Orbost Community College student leaders for passion, ideas and commitment to East Gippsland's future
  Darren Chester praised Orbost Community College student leaders for their passion and ideas during discussions on education, health, economy, and community, highlighting the importance of listening to youth for regional Victoria's future.
• East Gippsland opens nominations for 2026 Australia Day Awards recognising outstanding community contributions and achievements
  East Gippsland Shire Council invites nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognising individuals, groups, and events for outstanding community contributions in volunteering, sport, arts, environment, and service.
• Gippsland's diverse landscapes and bold winemakers offering flavours as varied and unforgettable as the region itself
  From wild coastlines to rugged ranges, Gippsland delivers bold landscapes and diverse wines. At Eat Drink Play Gippsland, explore unique flavours, passionate winemakers, and stories bottled across this Switzerland-sized wine region.
• Latrobe City allocates $7.3M surplus to key community infrastructure and improvement projects
  Latrobe City Council's $7.3 million surplus will fund key community projects, infrastructure upgrades, and maintenance, with $3.4 million reserved to leverage future State and Federal funding partnerships.
• Have Your Say on Wonthaggi structure plan review aiming to guide growth, community needs and opportunities
  Bass Coast Shire Council is reviewing the Wonthaggi Structure Plan. Have your say on the town's growth, housing, jobs, heritage, and future opportunities to help shape Wonthaggi as Bass Coast regional hub.
• East Gippsland libraries launch CloudLibrary, offering free eBooks and eAudiobooks anytime, anywhere
  East Gippsland Libraries have launched CloudLibrary, giving members free access to thousands of eBooks and eAudiobooks anytime, anywhere, supporting learning, leisure, and digital inclusion across the region.
• Serious crime rises reflect community concerns, worsened by Labor's cuts, weakened bail, reduced youth programs, says Melina Bath
  Crime in Eastern Victoria has reached a 20-year high, with Melina Bath condemning Labor's soft approach, police under-resourced, and The Nationals vowing stronger laws, prevention programs, and community safety reforms.
• Danny O’Brien condemns sudden AKD Yarram timber mill closure, 73 jobs lost, pledges support for affected community
  Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien says sudden AKD Yarram timber mill closure, costing 73 jobs, devastates the community, pledging support for affected families, workers, and local businesses during this crisis.
• Australia to celebrate inaugural Red and Yellow Day honouring volunteer lifesavers and supporting water safety initiatives
  Australia will celebrate its first Red & Yellow Day on March 4, 2026, honouring volunteer lifesavers and supporting lifesaving clubs through community participation and fundraising for vital water safety initiatives.
• Thurra River bridge and campground reopen for holidays, offering access to Croajingolong's forests, trails, and beaches
  Thurra River Bridge and campground reopen for holidays, restoring access to Croajingolong's forests, trails, and beaches after fire and flood damage, with resilient infrastructure upgrades ensuring long-term safety and community enjoyment.
• East Gippsland Water invites community feedback through annual customer satisfaction survey this October
  East Gippsland Water is inviting customers to complete its annual satisfaction survey, providing feedback on water quality, service, and community engagement. Responses will guide future improvements and participants can win a $100 bill credit.
• Darren Chester joins East Gippsland community to honour fallen Victoria police officers on Remembrance Day
  Darren Chester joined the East Gippsland community for National Police Remembrance Day in Bairnsdale, honouring Victoria Police officers who lost their lives and recognising those who continue to serve.
• Cr Nathan Hersey elected as Mayor and Cr Brad Snell as Deputy Mayor for South Gippsland and other council updates
  Councillor Nathan Hersey was elected Mayor and Councillor Brad Snell Deputy Mayor of South Gippsland Shire for 12 months, marking Hersey’s second and Snell’s first term in these roles.
• Latrobe Valley residents invited to crime and community safety forum with Shadow Police Minister David Southwick
  Latrobe Valley residents are invited to a free crime and community safety forum with Shadow Police Minister David Southwick on 6 November, hosted by Martin Cameron MP at the Morwell RSL.
• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• Inverloch dairy farmer Mick Hughes highlights community collaboration survive South Gippsland's dry season challenges
  Inverloch dairy farmer Mick Hughes credits collaboration with the Inverloch Cluster and local water authorities for navigating South Gippsland's recurring dry conditions and improving farm drought resilience.
• Labor government delivers $2.73M Sale Hospital upgrade, modernising Community Services building for Gippsland healthcare staff
  The Allan Labor government is delivering a $2.73 million upgrade to Sale Hospital's historic Community Services Building, modernising facilities for healthcare workers, patients, and students through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
• Bass Coast wins National AustStab Award for sustainable road recycling and innovative rehabilitation
  Bass Coast Shire Council won the 2025 AustStab Award for Excellence for pioneering road recycling methods, cutting emissions by 85%, truck movements by 80%, and delivering faster, more sustainable, durable roads with less disruption.
• Celebrate South Gippsland Eat Drink Play Festival and other council updates
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns to Leongatha's Railway Precinct, celebrating local food, drink, and music with family fun, tastings, live entertainment, and community spirit. Tickets are selling fast - don't miss out!
• Bass Coast secures long-term protection for distinctive landscapes and Western Port Woodlands
  Bass Coast Shire Council welcomes the Bass Coast Statement of Planning Policy, securing long-term protections for 24 townships, distinctive landscapes, and the Western Port Woodlands while guiding sustainable future growth.
• Have your say on the 2027 transition to Pre-Prep and help shape early learning in South Gippsland
  South Gippsland Shire Council is seeking feedback from parents and carers to help shape how the Victorian government's 2027 Pre-Prep program is delivered locally to meet community needs.
• South Gippsland Remembrance Day services to be held in various locations and other council updates
  South Gippsland marks Remembrance Day on 11 November with local services honouring veterans. Plus, free green waste disposal, festive giving initiatives, business support, community events, and engagement opportunities across the region this spring.
• Cowes Primary students visited Berninneit, meeting Mayor Halstead, exploring community spaces, learning about leadership and environment
  Curious Cowes Primary students meet Mayor Halstead at Berninneit, exploring local government, community spaces and environmental leadership during community walk visit.
• Latrobe City events drive tourism, economic growth and community engagement across the region
  Latrobe City hosted major sporting and cultural events in 2024 - 25, attracting over 27,000 attendees and generating $23.5 million in economic impact, reinforcing the region's growing reputation as an events hub.
• Labor provides rebates and programs to help regional households switch from costly gas to cheaper electric appliances
  The Allan Labor government is supporting 1,183 regional households impacted by Solstice's gas network closure with rebates, discounts, and programs to help them transition to cheaper, energy-efficient electric appliances.
• Forge Theatre's school holiday season brings classic tales, comedy chaos and heartfelt community spirit to East Gippsland
  The Forge Theatre's school holiday season features The Velveteen Rabbit, Polite Mammals, and The Heartbreak Choir, offering family fun, comedy, and heartfelt community spirit with something for everyone to enjoy.
• Omeo Justice Precinct draft masterplan unveiled to preserve heritage, enhance community use, and boost economy
  Omeo Mountain Bike Park opens December with over 100km of world-class trails, boosting tourism, jobs, and community pride. Final touches, shuttles, and events promise an inclusive, adventure-filled destination.
• Gippsland Water reappoints Sarah Cumming as Managing Director, extending leadership and community commitment until 2030
  Gippsland Water has reappointed Sarah Cumming as managing director until 2030, recognising her transformative leadership, strong community focus, and proven results, as the organisation enters a pivotal period of growth and change.
• Labor government's VicGrid laws pass with crossbench backing amid Nationals' warning of property rights erosion
  The Allan government's VicGrid laws passed with crossbench support, sparking Nationals' criticism over lost property rights, silenced regional voices, and overreach. The Nationals vow repeal in 2026 to restore landholder protections.
• East Gippsland Youth Ambassadors lead with vision, proving young voices shape community and lasting impact
  Eight months in, East Gippsland Youth Ambassadors are shaping the region's future, addressing key issues, leading projects, and gaining leadership skills that build confidence, community engagement, and long-term positive impact.
• Lifeline Workshop in Warragul Library: Understanding and Preventing Family Violence for community awareness and safety
  Free two‑hour session at Lifeline, held at MYLI Warragul on 25 Nov 2025 from 1‑3 pm, aims to build awareness, understanding and practical strategies to prevent family violence.
• Darren Chester met Tom Harms in Canberra, praising his WorldSkills selection as testament to talent and community support
  Maffra apprentice Tom Harms will represent Australia in Electrical Installations at the 2026 WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, after excelling through national trials. Darren Chester praised his achievement as Gippsland talent showcased globally.
• West Gippsland Landcare awarded $337,250 to transform landscapes, protect species, and enhance community green spaces statewide
  West Gippsland Landcare volunteers received $337,250 from 2025 Victorian Landcare Grants to restore landscapes, protect endangered species, enhance waterways, plant 30,000 trees, and engage communities in conservation projects.
• Latrobe City invites photographers and videographers to capture the region’s beauty in the ‘Latrobe Through Your Lens’ until 15 December 2025
  Latrobe City Council invites photographers and videographers to enter the eight-week Latrobe Through Your Lens competition, celebrating local people, places, and culture, with prizes including gift cards and getaway experiences.
• Indigenous artist Lionel Rose Junior honoured for Warragul Station Park artwork celebrating culture, community and family legacy
  Indigenous artist Lionel Rose Junior's cockatoo design now features in Warragul Station Park, honouring Kurnai and Gunditjmara heritage, community ties, and his family legacy alongside uncle Lionel Rose's iconic statue.
• Latrobe City launches investment campaign showcasing strength, innovation, and opportunities across Gippsland
  Latrobe City Council launched an investment campaign showcasing business strength, innovation, and opportunities positioning itself as Gippsland's hub for growth, transformation, and future industries.
• Latrobe unites to tackle gambling harm during awareness week: 'Set Before You Bet' 2025
  Latrobe City Council is urging residents to take part in Gambling Harm Awareness Week (27 Oct - 2 Nov) and "Set before you bet" by learning to recognise signs and reduce gambling harm.
• Danny O'Brien congratulates Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds receiving state funding to enhance community facilities
  Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds have received over $43,000 in state funding to upgrade facilities, recognising their vital role in supporting men's wellbeing and community connection.
• Latrobe Health Assembly wins 2025 Australasia Organisation of the Year for excellence in community engagement
  Latrobe Health Assembly has won the 2025 Australasia Organisation of the Year Award for Excellence in Community Engagement, recognising its innovative, community-driven approach to improving health and wellbeing across the Latrobe Valley.
• Bass Coast celebrates Victorian Seniors Festival this October with events, workshops, performances and community connection
  The Victorian Seniors Festival returns to Bass Coast this October with the theme Connect, Create, Celebrate, offering workshops, performances, games, tours, and free transport for Seniors Card holders.
• Darren Chester welcomes Aqua Energy redevelopment completion with modern aquatic, fitness, community facilities
  Darren Chester welcomed the upcoming completion of Aqua Energy's multi-million-dollar redevelopment in Sale, delivering modern pools and accessible facilities, boosting community health, sport, tourism, jobs, and long-term regional wellbeing.
• Danny O'Brien urges Allan Labor government to fix online rebate issues affecting CFA and SES volunteers' access to support
  Danny O'Brien has urged the Allan Labor Government to fix the online-only rebate system, saying CFA and SES volunteers struggle to access support and deserve easier, paper-based application options.
• Darren Chester welcomes Buchan Recreation Reserve redevelopment with pavilion, changerooms, community hub
  Darren Chester welcomed progress on the Buchan Recreation Reserve redevelopment, delivering a new pavilion and modern changerooms, with government funding and volunteers supporting a safer, more vibrant hub for sport and community activities.
• Tim Bull encourages Gippsland East communities to apply for Victorian government’s Tiny Towns Fund Grants until 4 February 2026
  Tim Bull urges Gippsland East communities to apply for the Tiny Towns Fund, offering $5,000-$50,000 grants to support tourism, liveability, and local projects for towns under 5,000 residents.
• Labor government backs Moe's Ted Summerton Reserve upgrades with major investment in cricket, football and community facilities
  Works have begun on Moe's Ted Summerton Reserve, delivering oval upgrades, lighting, new changerooms, and improvements through the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, boosting community sport, events, jobs, and local participation.
• Gippsland Water appoints Sam Muir and Kellie O’Callaghan to the board, bringing experience, diversity and community focus
  Gippsland Water has appointed Sam Muir and Kellie O’Callaghan to its Board, bringing diverse experience, strong community engagement, and fresh perspectives, while outgoing directors Jo Benvenuti and Chris Badger are acknowledged.
• East Gippsland Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee welcomes new members to strengthen engagement with farming
  East Gippsland's Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee welcomed new members, enhancing council's connection with farming communities while tackling key priorities like renewable energy, drought resilience, mental health, and pest animal challenges.