Our community has been deeply impacted by a devastating fire on Friday 9 January.
Moira Shire has now entered the assessment and recovery phase following the grassfire that impacted Cobram East, Katamatite, Katamatite East, Katunga, Muckatah, Naring, Yarroweyah and Yarroweyah South.
Developments over the weekend included a community information meeting held in Katamatite on Saturday; and the Emergency Relief Centre in Cobram, which was opened to support affected people on Friday, was closed on Saturday.
The Moira Recovery Information Centre is now open in Cobram to provide ongoing assistance and information to affected residents.
Moira Shire Council Chair Administrator Dr Graeme Emonson PSM urged anyone affected by the fires to reach out for help.
"We understand that we have at least 10 families who have lost their homes in the fire," DrEmonson said.
"This is a tragic situation. Our thoughts are with them and all others who have suffered property loss and damage from the fire.
"Our staff and other service representatives at the Recovery Information Centre are ready with information and access to resources to support fire victims.
"We're also very moved and grateful with how many community members have put their hands up to help, offering donations of food, money and household items."
Information about how to donate is listed below.
"In times of adversity like this we're reminded of the strong community spirit within Moira Shire," Dr Emonson said.
"We must thank our first responders and volunteer firefighters, and other emergency and relief organisations, for their unyielding efforts in fighting this fire and their support during the ongoing recovery.
"Over coming days, we will have access to the fire site. We will be working with property owners to understand the impacts, and we will ensure that every impacted property owner has the support and connection with agencies that can continue to provide assistance in the coming days, weeks and months as the recovery journey begins."
MOIRA RECOVERY INFORMATION CENTRE
The Moira Recovery Information Centre (RIC) is at 3/29 Station Street, Cobram (opposite the Shire office).
It will remain open until at least Friday 16 January, between 10am and 2pm each day. Call the centre on 0477 796 975.
Services available at the RIC this week include:
