Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting the community to attend the Castlemaine Emergency Expo at the Western Reserve this Saturday October 18.
The free community event is a fun day out for all ages and an opportunity to learn how to prepare for emergencies.
The day includes hands-on demonstrations, emergency vehicles to explore, kids’ activities, a sausage sizzle and expert advice, helping locals stay safe and informed.
The expo is held at the start of Victoria’s high-risk bushfire season, which is also the time of year when floods and storms are more likely.
Visitors can watch a live road crash rescue demonstration, tour emergency vehicles, and take part in interactive displays covering bushfire readiness, flood protection, storm safety, CPR and first aid.
There’ll also be experts available to walk you through simple, effective ways to prepare your home, family or farm for emergencies.
Children are especially well catered for, with engaging activities like squirty fire trucks, games and a chance to meet real-life emergency crews up close.
Castlemaine SES Section Lead Daniel Bone said the expo aims to make emergency preparedness more accessible and less overwhelming.
“Preparing for emergencies doesn’t have to be daunting,” Mr Bone said.
“This event brings the community together to learn in a supportive, hands-on way – and it’s designed to be enjoyable as well as educational.
“We want people to walk away feeling more confident, better informed, and more connected to their local services.”
The event will run from 12pm to 4pm. Entry is free.
The expo is open to residents from across the shire including Castlemaine, Harcourt, Maldon, Newstead, Taradale and surrounding communities.
The Castlemaine Emergency Expo is proudly supported by Mount Alexander Shire Council, SES, CFA, Victoria Police, Ambulance Victoria and Forest Fire Management Victoria.