Harcourt Progress Association’s Harcourt Relief Group has kindly shared an update about what is being done to support those impacted by the fire…
‘In the wake of recent challenges, the true spirit of our community is shining through. Neighbours are helping neighbours, and a central point of support has been established at the Harcourt Leisure Centre, ensuring that everyone has access to a warm meal, essential supplies, and vital connections.
Throughout this week, from Monday, January 19 to Friday, January 23, the Leisure Centre is opening its doors from 12pm to 2pm for free Community Lunches.
All residents of Harcourt, Walmer, Ravenswood, Faraday and Sutton Grange are warmly invited to come together, share a meal, and find fellowship.
Beyond the lunches, the Centre has been transformed into a full-service Community Hub, operating daily from 10am to 4pm.
Here, residents can find a free pantry for food and household essentials, and access shower facilities.
A key feature of the Hub is the direct, on-site presence of support services. Officers from Mount Alexander Shire Council are available to assist with financial aid, welfare support, and other council services. Specialists from Lifeline and Anglicare are also present to provide crisis support and community care.
In a show of direct representation, Bendigo West MP, Maree Edwards, will be at the Centre to meet with and assist constituents.
The generosity of our wider community has been nothing short of astounding. So much so, that the Castlemaine Donation Centre at 5 Johnstone Street is now close to capacity for many household items. To ensure this incredible outpouring of support is managed effectively, we kindly ask that anyone wishing to donate physical goods please contact the Harcourt Relief Centre first at 03 5415 3101 to verify what specific items are currently
needed. This helps us avoid duplication and direct resources where they are most needed.
For those with stockfeed to donate, we are still accepting these crucial supplies. Please call the relief number (03 5415 3101) to receive specific directions on where to deliver the feed for proper storage and distribution to local farmers and animal owners.
Other Important Community Updates:
● Water Safety: Residents using tank water who may have been exposed to bushfire chemicals are advised to take precautions. Divert roof runoff until after the next significant rain. The community relief group is currently coordinating and managing tank cleaning efforts for affected households. Emergency relief drinking water is also available through official channels.
● Community Meeting: A vital community gathering will be held at the Harcourt Leisure Centre this Wednesday, January 21, at 12pm.
● Supporting Our Children: A helpful information session for parents and carers, ‘Helping Kids After Disaster’, is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, at 4.30pm at the Castlemaine Community House. Childcare will be available.
● How to Help: For those still looking to contribute, financial donations are currently the most effective way to support relief efforts. Details for the official GoFundMe and bank transfers can be found online. Volunteers are also still needed and can register through the CCH website.
The response to this situation has shown the immense strength and compassion at the heart of our community. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please reach out.
Visit the Harcourt Hub, call 5415 3101, or email harcourtrelief@gmail.com. Together, we are navigating this path forward.
For the latest official information, please refer to the VicEmergency newsletter on the VicEmergency – Loddon Mallee Facebook page.’
