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The bushfires: a shared tragedy

A statement by Philip Davis, Member for Eastern Victoria: We all bear the marks of tragedy and shock that the bushfires have so devastatingly inflicted on Victoria since Saturday.

By Kevin Balshaw - 10th February 2009 - Back to News

 Statement by Philip Davis, Member for Eastern Victoria

We all bear the marks of tragedy and shock that the bushfires have so devastatingly inflicted on Victoria since Saturday.

I extend my deepest sympathy to everyone in the bushfire areas as we continue to count the loss and come to terms with the worst disaster in the state’s history.

The emergency services personnel and volunteers who worked in all capacities are due our enduring respect and gratitude.

Without reservation, the whole community is with the fire victims. We will provide continuing care and support, officially and personally, to whatever extent it takes for them to rebuild their lives and communities.

From my position as a Member of Parliament, anyone requiring help to obtain assistance or with issues that require pursuing may contact my electorate office in Sale. As necessary, I will act as an interface with government and work with other MPs representing the region to ensure all needs are met.

In addition to the broader public appeal that has been launched, I would draw people’s attention to the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund, which is assisting fire victims. The fund is run on an entirely voluntary basis and every dollar donated reaches the end beneficiaries. Donations may be made at National Australia Bank branches in Gippsland or by post to PO Box 508, Traralgon, 3844.

I fear the time of critical risk may not yet be over. The fire areas will continue burning for quite some time and we can expect more hot weather. We could be at the beginning of an extreme fire season that may persist for the next month and require ongoing vigilance.

The task of rebuilding will also be a challenge of endurance. Through the fires we have seen evidence yet again of the quality of community spirit – a collective heroism in adversity – that is so typical of Australians.

But we must be braced for a day-to-day task that will take a long time, and even then the scars will remain.

And there will come a time to look for the lessons that might be learned.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: kevin.balshaw@parliament.vic.gov.au

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