Since 9 January when Harcourt and surrounds was razed by bushfire, an incredible community response has ensued with Rotary Castlemaine one of many local service clubs supporting the effort to recovery. The power of the Rotary network has never been more evident and we are truly thankful to our fellow clubs.We have been humbled by the incredible response from our fellow Rotary Clubs with donations totalling $41,150 from across the district and further afield including Pinjarra in WA, Taree on Manning in NSW and the Decatur Daybreak Club in Alabama USA! Included in this total was $5,000 of vouchers from RAWCS. Household goods were donated through Donations in Kind and the Victorian Emergency Relief Network. On top of that, a further $13,150 in supermarket vouchers were distributed thanks to a corporate donation.
The new stage in James Park ready for Harcourt Applefest
Thanks to this incredible support we have co-funded the building of a stage in James Park that opened in time for the Harcourt Applefest. The event attracted over 8,000 people including our DG Peter Shepherd and raised significant funds for the community. We also purchased washing machines and dryers for the Community Centre. There will be many ongoing projects over the coming months that we will step in and support as needed.
Never has the Rotary brand been move prevalent in our region. Our portable stage and BBQ trailer have been in constant demand for fundraising events. We put the call out for donations of bicycles and within a week we had 30 to distribute.
In terms of volunteering, we have given strong support to the Donation and Distribution Centre that provided clothing and household goods to bushfire victims and has helped to spark a wider conversation about a regional resource in the longer term. The current Centre [housed in a privately owned facility] will close in early May with alternate distribution channels established.
We know that psychologically this is a long road to recovery for those affected. As the lead agency, the Harcourt Progress Association has engaged mental health support services for volunteers and families as they enter a new phase of grief and tougher times. Michael Henry recently spoke at a club dinner on the history of his family orchard and cider making business. With his house destroyed and a significant proportion of the orchard impacted he is now exploring new opportunities.
We are extremely grateful to the Rotary Clubs of Ocean Grove and Bendigo for inviting fire impacted women to access the Starthrower Wellbeing Experience. Two experiences have been held to date with more scheduled in the coming months.
Thank you Rotarians for your support as we continue to help rebuild the community of Harcourt.