Bush Fire Recovery Snowy Valleys

SNOWY VALLEYS BUSHFIRE RECOVERY BULLETIN #9, 26 FEBRUARY

ASSISTANCE POINTS OPEN

Recovery Assistance Points are now opened across our region; they are designed as a one-stop point with many support services and agencies in attendance including Service NSW, Legal Aid, NSW Health, Red Cross, chaplains and insurers. No matter how big or small your needs may be please visit one of these locations and we can provide access to the services you require. Opening hours are 10am – 4pm.

Thursday 27 February: Talbingo, Talbingo Shops

Friday 28 February: Adelong, Services and Citizens Club

Saturday 29 February: Batlow, Literary Institute

Tuesday 2 March: Tumbarumba, RSL Memorial Hall

Wednesday 3 March: Batlow, Literary Institute

LIFELINE 13 HELP

Lifeline have launched a 24/7 bushfire recovery line - 📞 13 HELP (13 43 57)

And a dedicated bushfire recovery website with toolkits and a range of resources to support people, families and children coping with the effects of disaster.

https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/topics/bushfire-recovery.

If you need to chat, here are some other services available:

Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636
Mensline: 1300 789 978
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

Take care – it’s okay to not be okay

NSW BUSHFIRE CUSTOMER CARE

For people impacted by bushfire, the NSW Bushfire Customer Care Service will help you navigate the support and financial assistance that’s available across all levels of government. Offering one-on-one support for people and businesses, available over the phone or in-person. Call 13 77 88 (7am – 7pm every day) Or visit www.service.nsw.gov.au

BUSHFIRE CLEAN-UP UPDATE

We understand that residents want to move forward with the clean-up process and we share this recovery mission with you. This week council met for the first time with the appointed contractor, Lang O’Rourke to learn more about what their process will be and we are working hard to find out more details that we can provide to you. For now we’ve put together a range of FAQs regarding what we know about the clean-up process on our Bushfire Recovery webpage www.svc.nsw.gov.au/recovery.

Most importantly impacted property owners who would like their property cleared need to register at Service NSW call 13 77 88 or go online: www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/nsw-bushfire-clean-register-now

INFORMATION FOR LANDHOLDERS

Local Land Services (LLS) can provide tailored advice and information to landholders impacted by the Dunns Road or Green Valley Fires. If you would like updates, please follow this link to join their newsletter https://mailchi.mp/lls.nsw.gov.au/riverinabushfirelist or contact them on 1300 795 299.

MEAT AND LIVESTOCK AUSTRALIA

Producers in fire-affected regions can now access up to three free one-on-one-sessions with a local farm management consultant to help put their business back on track. To register info@holmessackett.com.au, 02 6925 1758 or www.mla.com.au/bushfire-recovery

IMPACTED TREE REPORTING

We encourage you to report any issues relating to trees, please call 1300 ASK SVC (1300 275 782). We understand everyone’s situation is different and by logging your individual needs we can work out how best we can help you.

BLAZEAID FENCING SUPPORT

BlazeAid contacts:

Adelong: Christine Male - 0418 745 994 or blazeaid.adelong@gmail.com

Jingellic: Eugene - 0487 171 298 or blazeaid.jingellic@gmail.com

Tumbarumba: Rob Golgani – 0400 589 780 or blazeaid.tumbarumba@gmail.com

Tooma: Ron and Dianne Davies – 0419 308 822 or blazeaid.tooma@gmail.com

CHARITY SUPPORT

Red Cross

A number of payments and grants are available - Call Red Cross on 1800 733 276

Salvation Army

A number of grants available – Call Salvos on 1300 662 217

St Vincent De Paul

Vinnies can help with financial assistance, food and grocery vouchers, clothing, bedding, toiletries, fuel vouchers and emotional support. If you need support visit Tumut Vinnies at 32 Merivale St, between 1:30pm-3:30pm on Monday, Wednesday or Friday or call Pat on 0401 472 161 to make other arrangements.

Alternatively call 13 18 12 or visit www.vinnies.org.au/bushfireassistance

WANT MORE INFO?

Snowy Valleys Council is adding to our online recovery resources daily. Start exploring you needs at www.svc.nsw.gov.au/recovery

Please continue to keep yourself informed by checking reliable sources, continue to be kind to each other and reach out for support when you need it. We will get through this together.

Photo: BlazeAid Adelong – new fencing

SNOWY VALLEYS BUSHFIRE RECOVERY BULLETIN #8, 19 FEBRUARY

A few good news stories to kick off this week’s bulletin.

RFS declared on Saturday at 6pm after 50 days the Dunn’s Road fire official OUT! The Green Valley –Talmalmo fire has also been declared out. Thanks to everyone involved in the mammoth task of working on these fires.

Alpine Way reopens to traffic

Transport for NSW announced yesterday that Alpine Way is now open to traffic between Khancoban and Thredbo after the road suffered extensive damage caused by recent bushfires. They recognised the inconvenience to the community but safety is their top priority. The bushfire-damaged area is very fragile and motorists are urged to drive to the conditions.

Slope stabilisation work will continue to be carried out. For the lastest traffic information, visit www.livetraffic.com download the Live Traffic NSW app or call 132 701

Talbingo Boat Ramp reopens

Snowy Hydro is pleased to announce the Talbingo boat ramp has now reopened after extensive clean up works to the road and boat ramp car park.

Access to the Dam, along with the boat ramp car park has been closed since before the Australia Day long weekend due to the bushfire and subsequent rain in Talbingo.

Snowy Hydro recognises the recreational value of these facilities and has worked hard with assistance from council to get the road and ramp reopened as soon as possible. They advise that the spillway remains closed at this time.

If you are heading out for a Sunday drive this weekend or looking for something to do #VisitSnowyValleys #khancoban #Talbingo #snowymountains

ASSISTANCE POINTS OPEN

The Batlow site was the first to open on Saturday with other sites opening from yesterday. Anyone affected by the recent bushfires is invited and encouraged to visit any of these locations on a time or day that suites. Opening hours are 10am – 4pm and some residents may find that it is helpful to visit multiple times.

Recovery Assistance Points are designed as a one-stop point, providing practical assistance and support for people impacted by the bushfires. Support services and agencies invited to attend the Assistance Points include Disaster Welfare, small business advisors, NSW Health, Legal Aid, Fair Trading, Red Cross, the Salvation Army, chaplains and insurers.

Details of the Recovery Assistance Point are:

Tuesday: Tumbarumba, RSL Memorial Hall

Wednesday: Batlow, Literary Institute

Thursday: Talbingo, Talbingo Mountain Retreat

Friday: Adelong, Services and Citizens Club

Saturday: Batlow, Literary Institute

NSW BUSHFIRE CUSTOMER CARE

For people impacted by bushfire, the NSW Bushfire Customer Care Service will help you navigate the support and financial assistance that’s available across all levels of government. Offering one-on-one support for people and businesses, available over the phone or in-person. Call 13 77 88 (7am – 7pm every day) Or visit www.service.nsw.gov.au

NSW Small Business Bushfire Information Sessions Roadshows

The Roadshows are information sessions for small businesses affected by the bushfires in regional NSW. Small businesses will hear from a number of government agencies on support available and have the opportunity to discuss individual circumstances one-on-one.

Adelong – Monday, 24 Febuary 2020 – 6-8pm at Services & Citizens Club

Tumut – Tuesday, 25 February 2020 – 6-8pm at Club Tumut

Batlow – Wednesday, 26 February 2020 – 6-8pm at the Batlow RSL Club

Tumbarumba – Thursday 27 February 2020 – 6-8pm at the Tumbarumba Bowling Club

Details for all sessions, including how to register, can be found at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/d/australia--new-south-wales/nsw-treasury/

BUSHFIRE CLEAN-UP FURTHER INFORMATION

The NSW Government and the Commonwealth are jointly covering the clean-up costs of residential and eligible commercial properties destroyed in the NSW bushfires since 1 July 2019.

Laing O’Rourke Australia has been appointed as the managing contractor, responsible for managing the clean-up of properties across NSW, working with Public Works Advisory (PWA).

Qualified local contractors and suppliers will be engaged, where possible, to deliver clean-up services to ensure the clean-up operation maximises local knowledge and expertise and assists local economic recovery.

Impacted property owners who would like their property cleared need to register at Service NSW or call 13 77 88 or online: www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/nsw-bushfire-clean-register-now

Registering helps deploy resources to communities and enables owners to provide consent for crews to undertake work on their property.

For more information and Frequently Asked Questions visit council’s website www.svc.nsw.gov.au/recovery

IMPACTED TREE REPORTING

Our crews are working through more than 350km of fire impacted roads across the Snowy Valleys.

We encourage you to report any issues relating to trees, please call 1300 ASK SVC (1300 275 782). We understand everyone’s situation is different and by logging your individual needs we can work out how best we can help you.

Council has a 3 phase approach to bushfire impacted trees:

1. Our number one priority is road access– clearing logs and facilitating safe access. This phase is largely complete.

2. Removal of the most dangerous trees – we have a team of arborists assessing and prioritising the trees most at risk of falling. This phase is well underway.

3. Final assessment – assess remaining trees in more detail; identify trees that may be at risk in the future and managing fallen timber.

BLAZEAID FENCING SUPPORT

BlazeAid continues to do valuable work across our region. BlazeAid Tumbarumba have pulled down 47.3km of fencing, erected 5.3km of fencing, registered 92 farms, 54 volunteers have lent a hand and along with fencing works have repaired roofing and cleared polypipe. With Tooma BlazeAid opening today the incredible work will continue.

BlazeAid contacts:

Adelong: Christine Male - 0418 745 994 or blazeaid.adelong@gmail.com

Jingellic: Eugene - 0487 171 298 or blazeaid.jingellic@gmail.com

Tumbarumba: Rob Golgani – 0400 589 780 or blazeaid.tumbarumba@gmail.com

Tooma: Ron and Dianne Davies – 0419 308 822 or blazeaid.tooma@gmail.com

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

The following are free services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Mensline: 1300 789 978
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

Supportive Counselling

Murrumbidgee Local Health District has free Supportive Counselling available for anyone and invites you to pop in for a coffee and a chat. They are in Batlow at the CWA Rooms, Pioneer Street weekdays from 10:00am – 3:00pm.

Supportive Counselling is also available in Adelong, Talbingo, Tumbarumba and Tumut.

For more details contact Kathleen Manning on 0428 115 627 or the accessline on 1800 800 944.

SNOWY VALLEYS COMMUNITY ADVISORY GROUP CONTACTS

Council has established a Local Government Recovery Action Committee supported by a range of sub-committees with key focus areas.

A Community Advisory Group has also been set up to support these sub-committees and provide feedback directly related to community concerns and issues from across the region.

Please contact your community representative to highlight any issues you would like them to raise at their next meeting:

• Tumut: Donna Martin 0438 922 019 or Andrew James 0407 474 591

• Gilmore: Col Locke 0400 671 973

• Batlow: Ray Billing 0412 539 535

• Tumbarumba: Jenny Wilkinson 0447 485 535, Jane Lane or Ed Launder 0419 471 743

• Talbingo: Regina Roach 6453 3214

• Adelong: Fiona Matthews 0429 999 369

• Wondalga: Shane Walsh 0427 212 607

• Ellerslie: Matt Pearce 0488 909 482

• Jingellic: Mary Hoodless 0428 104 482

• Khancoban: Lesley Barlee 0427 769 358

• Tooma: Jeff Sheather 0414 522 688

GRANTS OPEN TO ALL OF SNOWY VALLEYS

The Pratt Foundation has partnered with Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR) to support the delivery of a $1 million Visy Tumut Region Recovery Fund. This support is for local not-for-profit organisations and community groups which are delivering locally-led projects and activities that endeavour to support people in the Snowy Valleys Council region with their recovery as a result of the 2019/2020 bushfires.

Applications are now open and close 5pm AEDT, Friday 28 February

https://www.frrr.org.au/cb_pages/pratt_foundation_bushfire_recovery_fund.php

More information about the program is available by contacting Jo Kemp on
03 5430 2320 or dairy@frrr.org.au

Murrumbidgee Youth Community Grants

Schools, sporting clubs, youth groups, and other organisations involved in supporting young people up to the age of 25 years, can now apply for a Murrumbidgee Youth Community Grant to receive funding for activities aimed at building resilience and positive mental health and wellbeing.

Grant applications close on Friday, 27 March 2020 or when funding is exhausted. All grant activities must be complete by 30 June 2020. For more information about the Murrumbidgee Youth Community Grants visit www.mphn.org.au or follow Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network on Facebook or Twitter.

WANT MORE INFO?

Snowy Valleys Council is adding to our online recovery resources daily. Start exploring you needs at www.svc.nsw.gov.au/recovery

Please continue to keep yourself informed by checking reliable sources, continue to be kind to each other and reach out for support when you need it. We will get through this together.

Our next Snowy Valleys Bushfire Recovery Bulletin will be posted on Wednesday, 26 February.

Photo: Batlow Assistance Point – Opening Day Saturday 15 February – Batlow Literary Institute

The NSW Government and the Commonwealth are jointly covering the clean-up costs of residential and eligible commercial properties destroyed in the NSW bushfires since 1 July 2019.

Laing O’Rourke Australia has been appointed as the managing contractor, responsible for managing the clean-up of properties across NSW, working with Public Works Advisory (PWA).

Qualified local contractors and suppliers will be engaged, where possible, to deliver clean-up services to ensure the clean-up operation maximises local knowledge and expertise and assists local economic recovery.

Delivering these services means impacted property owners will not have to pay for debris, including potentially hazardous materials, to be removed and disposed of.

Impacted property owners who would like their property cleared need to register at Service NSW or call 13 77 88. Registering helps deploy resources to communities and enables owners to provide consent for crews to undertake work on their property.

Work will include;

• Removal of known hazardous materials, including asbestos
• Removal of materials destroyed by bushfire and hazardous trees
• With consent of building owners, removal of concrete slab foundations.

For more frequently asked questions relating to the Government's clean up please click here

In response to the NSW bushfire disaster the NSW State Government has set up a State Recovery Committee supported by Regional Recovery Committees.

Council has established a Snowy Valleys Council Recovery Committee to compile the needs of our community for either action locally or escalation to higher levels of government for assistance.

Membership of the Committee includes community leaders, business owners and elected officials who are specialists or actively involved in areas seen as key to the region’s recovery.

To ensure tasks and ideas can be identified and actioned as quickly as possible, the SVC Recovery Committee is supported by SVC Recovery Sub-Committees whose key areas of focus are health, well-being & education; forest industries; agriculture, livestock & horticulture; business & tourism; infrastructure, waste & environment; donations & disaster relief; Council business as usual; communications & community engagement; and a Community Advisory Group.

Click here to find out more about the SVC Bushfire Recovery Committees

Bushfire-impacted residents can seek help and advice about a range of vital services with the opening of new Recovery Assistance Points in Batlow, Adelong, Talbingo and Tumbarumba.

Snowy Valleys Council will open the assistance points to ensure there is ongoing support for local residents recovering from the bushfire disaster.

“The road to recovery for individuals and the wider community will be a long one, and we will be here every step of the way,” said Chief Executive Officer Matthew Hyde.

“The opening of the Recovery Assistance Points is the next important phase in recovery,” he said.

Details of the Recovery Assistance Point are:

• Batlow – Literary Institute - Saturdays and Wednesdays 10am – 4pm - Starting Saturday 15 February
• Tumbarumba – RSL Memorial Hall – Tuesdays 10am – 4pm – Starting Tuesday 18 February
• Talbingo – Talbingo Mountain Retreat - Thursdays 10am – 4pm – Starting Thursday 20 February
• Adelong – Adelong S&C Club – Fridays 10am – 4pm – Starting Friday 21 February

People impacted by bushfires are encouraged to call Service NSW on 13 77 88, see a Service NSW team member in a Disaster Recovery Assistance Point, visit a Service NSW Centre or Mobile Service Centre, or go to www.service.nsw.gov.au for assistance.

SNOWY VALLEYS BUSHFIRE RECOVERY BULLETIN #7, 12 FEBRUARY

BUSHFIRE RECOVERY ASSISTANCE POINTS

Bushfire-impacted residents can seek help and advice about a range of vital services with the opening of new Recovery Assistance Points in Batlow, Adelong, Talbingo and Tumbarumba. The opening of these Recovery Assistance Points is the next important phase as SVC continues to support our community through recovery.

Recovery Assistance Points are designed as a one-stop point, providing practical assistance and support for people impacted by the bushfires. Support services and agencies invited to attend the Assistance Points include Disaster Welfare, small business advisors, NSW Health, Legal Aid, Fair Trading, Red Cross, the Salvation Army, chaplains and insurers.

From Tuesday to Saturday each location will be open 10am – 4pm. The Batlow site will be the first to open on Saturday 15 February, at the Batlow Literary Institute. Anyone affected by the recent bushfires is invited and encouraged to visit any of these locations on a time or day that suites.

Details of the Recovery Assistance Point are:

Tuesday: Tumbarumba, RSL Memorial Hall

Wednesday: Batlow, Literary Institute

Thursday: Talbingo, Talbingo Mountain Retreat

Friday: Adelong, Services and Citizens Club

Saturday: Batlow, Literary Institute

MOBILE COMMUNITY MEETINGS

Communities around our region are leading the way as we respond to the bushfires of this summer. Tonight we will be at the Lacmalac Hall from 6:00pm-7:30pm and tomorrow we make the final two stops on the first series of mobile recovery meetings. Join us at the Rosewood RFS shed from 10.30am-12midday or at the Khancoban Shopping Precinct from 3:00pm-4:30pm.

NSW BUSHFIRE CUSTOMER CARE

For people impacted by bushfire, the NSW Bushfire Customer Care Service will help you navigate the support and financial assistance that’s available across all levels of government. Offering one-on-one support for people and businesses, available over the phone or in-person. Call 13 77 88 (7am – 7pm every day) Or visit www.service.nsw.gov.au

BATLOW – LEVEL 2 WATER RESTRICTIONS

Even with the recent rainfall, Level 2 water restrictions have been enacted in Batlow. Residents and businesses are asked to reduce their water consumption through simple measures, such as hand held garden watering and limited hours for sprinkler operation. For more information visit www.svc.nsw.gov.au/water-restrictions

NSW POLICE FORCE BUSHFIRE DAMAGE ONLINE SELF-REPORTING PORTAL

The NSW Police Force has created a new online form for people impacted by bushfires across the state to report property damage.

To access the form, go to the New South Wales Police Force website at

www.police.nsw.gov.au/bushfire_report or call PoliceLink on 131 444

The online form allows people to report damage to structures, vehicles, vessels, and household property. After members of the community complete the form, they will be issued with a Bushfire Report Reference Number that can be used when speaking with police and insurance providers.

SEEKING PLANNERS AND BUILDING PROFESSIONALS

Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina are currently seeking expressions of interest from professionals that can assist residents with the processes and the preparation of plans and documents required for obtaining necessary development and construction approvals for rebuilding and who may be able to offer their services at a discounted rate.

To add your name/business to the list or to seek further information please contact Rachel Whiting ceo@rdariverina.org.au or Melanie Renkin research@rdariverina.org.au

https://mailchi.mp/rdariverina.org.au/planners-bushfireassistance

DISASTER RELIEF FOR INDIVIDUALS

A range of assistance measures are available to support people affected by bushfires.

Commonwealth Government Disaster Recovery Payment

Call the Bushfire Customer Care Service on 13 77 88 or Human Services: 180 22 66

Commonwealth Government Disaster Recovery Allowance

Contact Human Services: 180 22 66

NSW Government Disaster Relief Grants

Disaster Welfare Assistance Line: 1800 018 444

Replacing personal documents

Visit your nearest Service NSW centre, or call 13 77 88

Motor vehicle stamp duty relief

Office of State Revenue: 1300 139 814

Legal assistance

Disaster Response Legal Service: 1800 801 529

Telstra disaster relief

Telstra: 132 203

NSW Government council rates relief

The NSW Government announced six months of council rates relief to ease the burden for anyone who has lost their home or small business in the recent bush fires. To have the payment covered; residents and small business owners will need to take their council rates notice to their local Service NSW centre. Anyone who has already paid their rates will receive a refund. Contact Service NSW 13 77 88

CHARITY SUPPORT

Red Cross

A number of payments and grants are available - Call Red Cross on 1800 733 276

Salvation Army

A number of grants available – Call Salvos on 1300 662 217

St Vincent De Paul

Vinnies can help with financial assistance, food and grocery vouchers, clothing, bedding, toiletries, fuel vouchers and emotional support. If you need support visit Tumut Vinnies at 32 Merivale St, between 1:30pm-3:30pm on Monday, Wednesday or Friday or call Pat on 0401 472 161 to make other arrangements.

Alternatively call 13 18 12 or visit www.vinnies.org.au/bushfireassistance

Anglicare

Food, financial, clothing, counselling – Contact Anglicare on (02) 8624 8600

DISASTER RELIEF FOR LANDHOLDERS

Disaster Recovery Grant – landholders

Call the Bushfire Customer Care Service on 13 77 88 or call the Rural Assistance Authority on 1800 678 593

Disaster relief low interest loans

Visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au or call NSW Rural Assistance Authority: 1800 678 593

Rural financial counsellors and support workers

The Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) can assist with reviewing your financial situation, identifying the right assistance, helping with applications, re-evaluating business goals and developing a fire recovery plan. Call 1800 319 458

Bushfire impacted tree information

SVC encourages you to report any issues relating to trees, please call 1300 ASK SVC (1300 275 782). We understand everyone’s situation is different and by logging your individual needs we can work out how best we can help you.

Blazeaid fencing support

Adelong: Christine Male - 0418 745 994 or blazeaid.adelong@gmail.com

Jingellic: Eugene - 0487 171 298or blazeaid.jingellic@gmail.com

Tumbarumba: - Rob Golgani – 0400 589 780 or blazeaid.tumbarumba@gmail.com

DISASTER RELIEF FOR BUSINESS

Disaster recovery grants – small business

Call the Bushfire Customer Care Service on 13 77 88

Federal Government – Small Business Support grants and loans

Businesses can visit www.business.gov.au or call 13 28 46

Small business bushfire information sessions

The NSW Government Bushfire Regional Roadshow are holding information sessions for small businesses affected by the bushfires in regional NSW. Small businesses will hear from a number of government agencies on support available and have the opportunity to discuss individual circumstances one-on-one.

Tumut – Tuesday, 25 February 2020 – 6-8pm at Club Tumut

Batlow – Wednesday, 26 February 2020 – 6-8pm at the Batlow RSL Club

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

The following are free services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Mensline: 1300 789 978
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

Australian Government mental health support

The Australian Government is providing mental health support for individuals, families and emergency service workers affected by the bushfires. Up to 10 free counselling sessions are available for those affected by the bushfires. Visit www.health.gov.au

Murrumbidgee Youth Community Grants

Schools, sporting clubs, youth groups, and other organisations involved in supporting young people up to the age of 25 years, can now apply for a Murrumbidgee Youth Community Grant to receive funding for activities aimed at building resilience and positive mental health and wellbeing.

Grant applications close on Friday, 27 March 2020 or when funding is exhausted. All grant activities must be complete by 30 June 2020. For more information about the Murrumbidgee Youth Community Grants visit www.mphn.org.au or follow Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network on Facebook or Twitter.

Supportive Counselling

Murrumbidgee Local Health District has free Supportive Counselling available for anyone and invites you to pop in for a coffee and a chat. They are in Batlow at the CWA Rooms, Pioneer Street weekdays from 10:00am – 3:00pm.

Supportive Counselling is also available in Adelong, Talbingo, Tumbarumba and Tumut.

For more details contact Kathleen Manning on 0428 115 627 or the accessline on 1800 800 944.

BUSHFIRE CLEAN-UP AND WASTE MANAGMENT

The NSW and Federal Government have agreed to clean up properties damaged by bushfires at no cost to the owner.

Register as soon as possible as Public Works Advisory and Laing O’Rourke staff will begin contracting registered property owners to being planning. They will pre-arrange any household visits and will not turn up unannounced or demand payment.

Register with Service NSW online: www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/nsw-bushfire-clean-register-nowor call on 13 77 88

SNOWY VALLEYS COMMUNITY ADVISORY GROUP CONTACTS

Council has established a Local Government Recovery Action Committee supported by a range of sub-committees with key focus areas.

A Community Advisory Group has also been set up to support these sub-committees and provide feedback directly related to community concerns and issues from across the region.

Please contact your community representative to highlight any issues you would like them to raise at their next meeting:

• Tumut: Donna Martin 0438 922 019, Andrew James 0407 474 591 or

Col Locke 0400 671 973

• Batlow: Ray Billing 0412 539 535

• Tumbarumba: Jenny Wilkinson 0447 485 535, Jane Lane or Ed Launder 0419 471 743

• Talbingo: Regina Roach 6453 3214

• Adelong: Fiona Matthews 0429 999 369

• Wondalga: Shane Walsh 0427 212 607

• Ellerslie: Matt Pearce 0488 909 482

• Jingellic: Mary Hoodless 0428 104 482

• Khancoban: Lesley Barlee 0427 769 358

• Tooma: Jeff Sheather 0414 522 688

COMMUNITY RELIEF EVENTS

We have already seen some fantastic community bushfire relief events being held across the region. If you are planning on holding an event please let us know so we can help to promote via our Bulletins.

WANT MORE INFO?

Snowy Valleys Council is adding to our online recovery resources daily. Start exploring you needs at www.svc.nsw.gov.au/recovery

Please continue to keep yourself informed by checking reliable sources, continue to be kind to each other and reach out for support when you need it. We will get through this together.

Our next Snowy Valleys Bushfire Recovery Bulletin will be posted on Wednesday, 19 February.

Photo: Letters of Support from France – The Khancoban fire-fighters were chuffed to receive support letters from College Jacques Brel in France. The Khancoban United Volunteers Association decided they would reply to the students and send them a parcel of Aussie souvenirs.

SNOWY VALLEYS BUSHFIRE RECOVERY BULLETIN #6, 5 FEBRUARY

MOBILE COMMUNITY MEETINGS

A Council led mobile recovery centre will continue visiting communities across the region over the coming week. Council staff, with support from government agency representatives will be onsite to answer questions, assist with paperwork and help you with your recovery.

Schedule:

📌Tumut – Thursday 6 February – 6:00-7:30pm @Boys Club Hall

📌Ournie – Friday 7 February – 11am–12:30pm @Ournie RFS Shed

📌Laurel Hill – Friday 7 February – 3:00–4:30pm – Laurel Hill Forest Lodge

📌Wondalga – Monday 10 February – 10:30am–12midday – Wondalga RFS Shed

📌Ellerslie & Yaven Creek - Monday 10 February –1:30-3:00pm – Yaven Creek RFS Shed

📌Gilmore – Wednesday 12 February – 10:30am-12midday – Gilmore Hall

📌Goobarragandra & Lacmalac - Wednesday 12 February - 6:00 - 7:30pm - Lacmalac Hall

📌Rosewood – Thursday 13 February - 10.30am-12midday - Rosewood RFS

📌Khancoban – Thursday 13 February – 3:00pm-4:30pm - Khancoban Shopping Precinct

NSW BUSHFIRE CUSTOMER CARE

For people impacted by bushfire, the NSW Bushfire Customer Care Service will help you navigate the support and financial assistance that’s available across all levels of government. Offering one-on-one support for people and businesses, available over the phone or in-person.

Call 13 77 88 (7am – 7pm every day)

Or visit www.service.nsw.gov.au for locations of Service NSW, and Mobile Service Centres.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

It’s completely normal to experience a range of emotions after a fire, including anxiety, forgetfulness, sleep disturbance and more. Having someone to listen to and support you through this is very important.

Check in on your friends and neighbours, and if you or someone you know needs help, reach out.

The following are free services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511
Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Mensline: 1300 789 978
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger call 000

SUPPORTIVE COUNSELLING

Murrumbidgee Local Health District has free Supportive Counselling available for anyone and invites you to pop in for a coffee and a chat. They are in Batlow at the CWA Rooms, Pioneer Street weekdays from 10:00am – 3:00pm.

Supportive Counselling is also available in Adelong, Talbingo, Tumbarumba and Tumut. For more details contact Kathleen Manning on 0428 115 627 or the accessline on 1800 800 944.

NSW GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCE COUNCIL RATES RELIEF FOR BUSHFIRE AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

The NSW Government yesterday announced six months of council rates relief to ease the burden for anyone who has lost their home or small business in the recent bush fires.

Affected residents that have lost their homes and small businesses will soon be able to take their council rates notice to a Service NSW centre and the Government will cover the cost. Anyone who has already paid their rates will receive a refund.

Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available. Service NSW Call 13 77 88 (7am – 7pm every day)

NSW BUSHFIRE CLEAN-UP CONTRACTOR ANNOUNCED

The NSW and Federal Government have agreed to clean up properties damaged by bushfires at no cost to the owner.

As part of recovery efforts the NSW Government has also selected Laing O’Rourke Australia as the lead contractor to undertake the clean-up.

The contractor will also be working hand in hand with Public Works Advisory to engage local suppliers and subcontractors, to keep local economies ticking over. Many local subcontractors have already contacted Public Works Advisory and their details have been provided to Laing O’Rourke.

Call Service NSW on 13 77 88, or visit www.service.nsw.gov.au to register your details and provide consent so contractors can access your land.

WATER ACCOUNT ASSISTANCE

We know many residents may be feeling some anxiety about receiving their next water account and Council is working hard to reduce the impact of bill shock for our communities. At the January extraordinary meeting, Council agreed to apply a firefighting discount to water rates for quarter three where applicable.

The next water meter readings will be happening soon and once completed we will compare them to the same quarter last year and determining any excess usage. A firefighting discount will then be applied where applicable before water notices are sent to customers.

Council will have more information regarding the firefighting discount in the coming months.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM NSW FAIR TRADING

Fair trading recommend that people in the repair or rebuild phase check to see if tradespeople are licensed – details can be checked at: https://www.licencecheck.nsw.gov.au/s/

The community is doing an extraordinary job fundraising for victims of the bushfire emergency. With large amounts of money being raised, it’s vital there are appropriate protections in place. A bushfire appeals fundraising hotline and website has been set up and you are reminder to watch out for scammers:

https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/news-and-updates/news/bushfire-fundraising

SNOWY VALLEYS COMMUNITY ADVISORY GROUP CONTACTS

Council has established a Local Government Recovery Action Committee supported by a range of sub-committees with key focus areas.

A Community Advisory Group has also been set up to support these sub-committees and provide feedback directly related to community concerns and issues from across the region.

Please contact your community representative to highlight any issues you would like them to raise at their next meeting:

• Tumut: Donna Martin 0438 922 019, Andrew James 0407 474 591 or

Col Locke 0400 671 973

• Batlow: Ray Billing 0412 539 535

• Tumbarumba: Jenny Wilkinson 0447 485 535, Jane Lane or Ed Launder 0419 471 743

• Talbingo: Regina Roach 6453 3214

• Adelong: Fiona Matthews 0429 999 369

• Wondalga: Shane Walsh 0427 212 607

• Ellerslie: Matt Pearce 0488 909 482

• Jingellic: Mary Hoodless 0428 104 482

• Khancoban: Lesley Barlee 0427 769 358

• Tooma: Jeff Sheather 0414 522 688

BLAZEAID FENCING SUPPORT

BlazeAid camps are now open in Adelong and Jingellic and a camp will be opening in Tumbarumba on Friday with fencing due to start on Saturday.

The Adelong BlazeAid camp opened on 16 January, since then 461 volunteers have helped out, 3,918 meals have been prepared and served, 107km of fencing cleared and 39km rebuilt, 180 property owners have registered and the average volunteer age is 47.7years.

What a fantastic job they are doing! If you would like to volunteer to help with fencing or lend a hand cooking meals please contact the Coordinators:

Adelong: Christine Male - 0418 745 994 or blazeaid.adelong@gmail.com

Jingellic: Eugene - 0487 171 298or blazeaid.jingellic@gmail.com

Tumbarumba: - Rob Golgani – 0400 589 780 or blazeaid.tumbarumba@gmail.com

If you want to register for fencing assistance you can email: admin@blazeaid.com.au.

BUSHFIRE IMPACTED TREE MANAGEMENT/INFORMATION

We encourage you to report any issues relating to trees, please call 1300 ASK SVC (1300 275 782). We understand everyone’s situation is different and by logging your individual needs we can work out how best we can help you.

Council has a 3 phase approach to bushfire impacted trees:

1. Our number one priority is road access– clearing logs and facilitating safe access. This phase is largely complete.

2. Removal of the most dangerous trees – we have a team of arborists assessing and prioritising the trees most at risk of falling. This phase is well underway.

3. Final assessment – assess remaining trees in more detail; identify trees that may be at risk in the future and managing fallen timber.

ASSISTANCE FOR DAMAGED FENCES BORDERING NATIONAL PARKS

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) offer assistance under certain conditions to repair or replace fences bordering national parks in accordance with the NPWS boundary fencing policy.

NPWS is offering to purchase and supply an agreed quantity of fencing materials to reconstruct existing boundary fences.

To take up this offer please contact the environment line on 1300 361 967 or email info@environment.nsw.gov.au with your details and they will put you in touch with your local NPWS office. For more information please visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/assistance-for-fire-damaged-fences

LEGAL AID NSW

A legal Disaster Response Hotline has been set up by legal Aid NSW for people affected by natural disaster, with the offer of free legal advice. The dedicated number is 1800 801 529.

People can also visit the Legal Aid NSW website - https://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/get-legal-help/legal-help-for-victims-of-natural-disasters

Specialist services can also help with specific legal problems arising from the bushfires, including insurance claims, tenancy and social security. Please see the links on Council’s Bushfire recovery website.

Other – Rural Financial Counselling Service – NSW Southern Region

Bill Schulz – 1800 319 458 or bill@frcnsw.comau

www.rfcsnsw.com.au

COMMUNITY RELIEF EVENTS

We have already seen some fantastic community bushfire relief events being held across the region. If you are planning on holding an event please let us know so we can help to promote via our Bulletins.

WANT MORE INFO?

Snowy Valleys Council is adding to our online recovery resources daily. Start exploring you needs at www.svc.nsw.gov.au/recovery

Please continue to keep yourself informed by checking reliable sources, continue to be kind to each other and reach out for support when you need it. We will get through this together.

Our next Snowy Valleys Bushfire Recovery Bulletin will be posted on Wednesday, 12 February.

Photo: Maragle Community Meeting – Friday 31 January @ the Maragle RFS Shed

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) offers assistance under certain conditions to repair or replace fences bordering national parks in accordance with the NPWS boundary fencing policy. This is of particular relevance to landholders who immediately border national parks and nature reserves affected by the recent fires across New South Wales.

NPWS recognises the value and mutual benefit that appropriate boundary fences can provide. Given the damage caused by the recent fires, NPWS has been working with neighbours and would like to assist in the reinstatement of damaged boundary fences where required.

National Parks and Wildlife Service offer

NPWS is offering to purchase and supply an agreed quantity of fencing materials to reconstruct boundary fences.

Please note that this offer applies to the replacement or repair of pre-existing boundary fences only. For assistance with any new boundary fence bordering the park, which did not exist prior to the recent fires, a standard fencing agreement is required.

To take up this offer please contact the environment line on 1300 361 967 or email info@environment.nsw.gov.au with your details and we will put you in touch with your local NPWS office.

For more information please visit www.environment.nsw.gov.au/assistance-for-fire-damaged-fences