By Corey Everitt
Victoria State Premier Jacinta Allan made a stop at Emerald to be on the ground in one of the worst affected areas in last week’s storm and speak with the first responding volunteers.
VICSES Emerald’s station has been a site of constant activity as the organising centre of the recovery efforts after the storm on Tuesday 13 February which did significant damage through the Eastern Dandenongs.
Vehicles from Forest Fire Management, CFA and Ambulance Victoria lined the large new station built only recently. Despite the tireless work, moods were upbeat on Friday 16 February when Premier Allan arrived to pay a visit to hear from the volunteers and see the recovery efforts first-hand.
“The station physically is a terrific asset, but it’s what goes on inside it that really is so important and I was grateful to have the time today to come and thank the volunteers who have been working flat out since Tuesday,” Premier Allan said.
“They train for this year-round, ready for these sorts of emergencies, it’s a great credit to them and also to the wider local community that you’ve got people dedicated to supporting each other in really tough times.”
The Premier was also greeted by local Monbulk MP Daniela De Martino, Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik and Ranges Ward Councillor Jeff Springfield. State Minister for Energy & Resources Lily D’Ambrosio also joined the meeting to speak with volunteers.
Work was far from over at the time of the visit, as many roads were covered in debris and many damaged power lines and houses were still being assessed. Many parts of Emerald and Cockatoo were still without electricity.
“The fact that destructive winds tore through Emerald and particularly hit this community in a really bad way, it is going to take time, as they work through street by street, literally power pole by power pole,” Premier Allan said.
Volunteers relayed their experiences to Premier Allan, many referenced the June 9 2021 storms to convey the improvements since and some of the new challenges that have emerged.
Though the immediate response stage is not over, Premier Allan said questions will be asked going forward about severity of the failure from not just power, but to telecommunication.
“There is no doubt that as we get out of this immediate emergency response phase and into the recovery phase, there will be more lessons to learn,” Premier Allan said.
“Particularly in how the telecommunication companies need to have an understanding about their role as an essential service during times of emergency and their need to plan and prepare for that.”
The council has been busy throughout the week involved in relief efforts, the Premier’s visit was a welcome acknowledgement that the State Government is listening to the shire’s worst affected areas.
“It was great to have the Premier out in Emerald. Council certainly appreciates the extra support the State Government has provided to our communities,” Mayor Kowazik said.
Cr Springfield said, “Whilst this has been a very difficult time for many of our local residents, It’s great to see the community spirit shine bright as everyone works together to help one another out.
“It’s important to recognise the tremendous efforts and selfless dedication from the emergency service teams and volunteers, especially the Emerald SES, who jump straight into action during these disaster events.”
