By Jessica Anstice
With coronavirus restrictions easing and Cardinia Shire businesses and community members starting to get back on their feet, the council is seeking people to join the Covid-19 Community Recovery Committee.
The pandemic’s impact has been felt across the municipality, with more people experiencing increased mental health and social isolation issues, higher unemployment and job and financial insecurity.
Covid-19 Community Recovery Committee will support community wellbeing during the recovery period as well as advocate and advise the council and State Government on community needs and priorities.
Residents who are interested in becoming a committee member are invited to register their interested by 5pm on Monday 14 December.
A panel made up of community volunteers and council staff will select committee members after assessing expressions of interest.
Cardinia Shire mayor Brett Owen said that while government and other organisations play an important role, pandemic recovery is most effective in the long term if led by the community.
“We know the community has been hit hard by Covid-19 and 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone,” he said.
“2021 will be the year to rediscover, reconnect, reset and rebuild Cardinia so we can all continue to thrive as a community.
“Recovery is best led by the community from the ground up. Community members know what the community needs.”
As the state heads towards ‘Covid-normal’, Cr Owen said community voices and contributions are key to a successful recovery for the Cardinia Shire.
“We certainly want to start 2021 on a positive note and that’s why we want to hear directly from passionate community members now,” he added.
“We’re calling on people from all backgrounds from our nine new wards with relevant skills and experience to apply so the community recovery committee represents a range of ideas and experience.”
All applicants will be contacted by Thursday 24 December.
Visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/recoverycommittee to complete and return the Expression of Interest form by 5pm on 14 December.
Call the council on 1300 787 624 for more information or assistance completing the form.
