Murrindindi Shire Council stands with all community members affected by the January 2026 bushfire across our Shire and surrounding regions. This has been one of the most complex and confronting fire events our community has faced in many years, with residents, farmers, businesses and visitors experiencing significant loss, uncertainty and disruption.
Council is deeply saddened by the death of Murrindindi resident Maxwell Hobson during the fire events over the past week. We extend our sincere condolences to Mr Hobson's family. Mr Hobson was a respected member of the rural farming community, and his loss is felt profoundly in Terip Terip, which has already endured widespread damage. Our thoughts remain with the community as they continue to support one another during this difficult period.
Emergency response and community support
Throughout this emergency, Council teams have been working alongside State-led emergency services, providing local knowledge, coordination support and on-the-ground assistance. With active fires still in the landscape and conditions expected to remain volatile, Council continues to prepare for periods of high fire danger over coming weeks.
Across the Shire, communities have shown extraordinary care and cooperation, coordinating relief efforts, sharing information and supporting one another emotionally and with essential supplies. Council is working closely with these community-led initiatives and providing supplies, information and any other practical assistance as needed.
Recovery planning
While response efforts continue, Council has begun planning for the long recovery ahead. We recognise this journey will take time, care and sustained effort, particularly given the cumulative toll of repeated emergencies in recent years.
In the coming days and weeks, Council will be undertaking environmental health checks, building and infrastructure assessments, tree safety assessments, and supporting the state-sponsored waste and clean-up coordination in collaboration with partner agencies and neighbouring councils.
Information and support available now
Bushfire Information Hubs have been established at:
These hubs offer face to face support, assistance with accessing disaster relief payments and State and Commonwealth services, referrals for clean-up and wellbeing supports, and clear and up-to-date information.
Council is also sharing information on available services including Services Australia disaster relief payments, Commonwealth Bank pop-up and mobile banking in Yea and Alexandra, and the State coordinated clean-up program for uninsured or underinsured properties.
Advocacy for community needs
Council continues to advocate strongly to State and Federal Governments to ensure the needs and experiences of Murrindindi communities are recognised in relief and recovery decisions.
Advocacy to date has resulted in additional fire-impacted towns being included in disaster relief eligibility after Council raised concerns about initial exclusions. Council has also sought clearer and more flexible assessment processes to ensure residents feel encouraged to lodge claims and access what they are entitled to.
Further advocacy has focused on coordinated clean-up support for uninsured and underinsured properties, improved access to financial and banking services in impacted towns, and long-term recovery funding that reflects the scale of this event and the cumulative impact of recent emergencies.
This work will continue as Council pushes for community-based recovery hubs, support for primary producers and small businesses, restoration of important community assets, and funding for rebuilding that improves resilience.
Mayor's statement
Mayor Damien Gallagher said that it is vital that the community's needs remain at the centre of all response and recovery efforts.
"Our community has experienced profound loss, and we recognise the grief, exhaustion and uncertainty many people are feeling," Mayor Gallagher said.
"At the same time, we have witnessed remarkable care, generosity and resilience across our towns. Council is working to ensure that no impacted resident, business or town is overlooked in the support being provided."
"We are here to help - whether people need clear information, assisting people to navigate support services, or simply offering a place to sit, talk and have a cuppa. Council's doors are open. We will continue walking alongside our community through this emergency and throughout the recovery ahead."
Service information and contact points
Some Council services continue to be impacted as a result of the fire event. The latest information on service impacts is available on Council's website at
Residents are encouraged to stay connected through Council's website, Facebook page, or by contacting or visiting Council directly. Staff are available to provide information, reassurance and support.
For the latest information and available support, visit murrindindi.vic.gov.au/longwoodfire or contact Council on 5772 0333.
