The public can now make submissions to an independent review into the devastating Wooroloo Bushfire, which destroyed 86 homes.
In a Western Australian first, people will be able to upload video footage or audio recordings as part of their submissions.
The inquiry will be led by the Australasian Fire and Emergency Services Authorities Council (AFAC), which recently conducted an independent review into the Tasmanian bushfires.
An external panel has been appointed to oversee the inquiry comprising of AFAC nominated members Steve Yorke AFSM and David Nugent AFSM, and community member Sue Davies.
Assistant Commissioner Steve Yorke is currently on secondment to the Forestry Corporation NSW from the NSW Rural Fire Service.
David Nugent is the Director of Fire, Emergency and Enforcement with Parks Victoria.
The Wooroloo Bushfire started on February 1, 2021 and spread rapidly towards the west through northern parts of the Perth Hills.
The fire impacted communities in the City of Swan and the Shire of Mundaring, burning through more than 10,000 hectares.
The independent inquiry will analyse information gathered during the first stage of the review of the Wooroloo Bushfire.
It will examine a range of areas including the bushfire response, fuel management and mitigation activities and communications.
To make a submission online, go to https://www.wa.gov.au/government/independent-review-of-the-2021-wooroloo-bushfire
Postal submissions can be sent to:
The Wooroloo Review Independent Panel
c/o Department of the Premier and Cabinet
Locked Bag 3001
WEST PERTH WA 6872
Submissions close on September 24, 2021.
As stated by Emergency Services Minister Reece Whitby:
"The first-hand experiences of residents will form a vital part of the Wooroloo Bushfire review, and the opening of submissions is an important step forward not only for the independent inquiry but importantly for residents' healing.
"The community is resilient but there is no doubt this has been a tough time. In order to make what could be an emotional process as easy as possible, people will be able to upload video footage or audio recordings as part of their submissions.
"A picture paints a thousand words and these materials will help provide important context and greater understanding of residents' experiences."
As stated by Swan Hills MLA Jessica Shaw:
"I encourage members of the community to share their experiences and make a submission - I will certainly be doing so.
"Reliving the Wooroloo Bushfires won't be easy and we want to do what we can to minimise the trauma. That is why giving people the ability to illustrate their experiences by uploading video is so important."
As stated by Kalamunda MLA Matthew Hughes:
"The opening of submissions into the Wooroloo Bushfire inquiry is a significant milestone for residents and the wider Perth Hills community.
"I encourage those impacted to visit the website for full details on how to make a submission - every piece of information helps."
