Tuesday, 8 February 2022

Lowan electorate bushfires

Ms KEALY (Lowan) (15:45): On New Year’s Eve the Poolaijelo and Langkoop communities were devastated by a quick-spreading grassfire that destroyed thousands of head of sheep and cattle, dozens of farm outbuildings, hundreds of kilometres of fencing, extensive pasture and vehicles. Fortunately no lives were lost, and while beautiful gardens were destroyed, all occupied homes were spared through the excellent work of the CFA. I thank everyone who was involved in the response and recovery, particularly the local CFA volunteers, who have been called out almost every single day over a dreadfully busy fire season for the region.

In a major disappointment for the community, the Minister for Emergency Services has rejected the calls and the request by West Wimmera Shire Council to declare the event a disaster. This region has extremely limited access to resources and desperately needs state government support. The low population and the great work of the CFA to save homes should not be used against them. They need the support and they need it now. They cannot access Bushfire Recovery Victoria support without this declaration of a disaster. I therefore urge the minister to immediately review her decision and declare this fire a disaster to give this remote Victorian community the bushfire recovery support they desperately need.