By Mitchell Clarke
Premier Daniel Andrews has hit back at claims he isn’t interested in rural areas, vowing to continue to work alongside Bunyip bushfire victims, assisting them in their recovery process.
The comments follow the Gazette’s front page article last week titled ‘Burnt’ by brass where the Community Recovery Committee for the Bunyip Fire Complex were left asking when they’ll be visited by a relevant dignitary.
Some victims feel they aren’t considered as having suffered a devastating fire, left confused following reports Governor General David Hurley toured a single house destroyed by fires in Noosa.
It’s understood the Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Lisa Neville were kept up to date on the firefighting efforts and the impact on communities through multiple briefings.
“The Minister visited several sites impacted by the Bunyip fires to talk with residents, firefighters, businesses and councils following the fires in March,” a spokesperson confirmed.
“This also included community recovery meetings where she met with bushfire affected residents, as well as an aerial observation of the fire’s path to get a deeper understanding of the damage brought upon these communities and the landscape.
“Funding for welfare, property clean up, support and recovery services was also provided immediately after the fire.
“The government will continue to work with the local community about their needs and how to assist them in the bushfire recovery.”
It’s understood the State Government has invested in a record amount of aircraft and personnel for the coming fire season, with 50 aircraft and a further 300 seasonal firefighters this summer.
