Thank you

I WRITE to thank all in our community and beyond who answered the call to provide assistance during the last week’s bushfire and flood emergencies.

Thank you to the CFA volunteers who travelled from far and wide to work alongside our professional emergency services staff to minimise the effects of these bushfires on our community.

Thank you also to the SES volunteers who answered the numerous call outs for help during the strong winds and flooding.

And thank you to everyone in our community who did and continues to do what they can to offer help and support.

It was heartwarming to see the numerous offers from people on social media offering to open their homes or offering food and other services for those in need. While this doesn’t surprise me because I know the people of Gippsland South have generous hearts, it is important that everyone’s contribution is recognised.

From those who fought directly on the fire front to those assisting with shelter, meals and transport and those who continue to assist with clean-up efforts, your efforts are sincerely appreciated and valued.

Of course, as the clean-up efforts continue, there is no doubt that more support will be needed over coming months.  Those wanting to assist financially can do so to one of many charities, but most particularly the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund (gerf.org.au).

On behalf of all those affected and to everyone who has played their part, I say very sincerely, thank you for your efforts.

Danny O’Brien MP, The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Shadow Assistant Minister for Regional Health, Shadow Assistant Minister for Ambulance Services.