In response to severe weather events in June and October last year, Wellington Shire Council is inviting people to form community-led recovery committees in impacted areas of the municipality.  

Community recovery committees (CRCs) are aimed at building resilience through recovery from emergencies, and helping communities to plan, prepare for and respond to similar events in the future.  

Residents of all ages and backgrounds are urged to consider joining the committees, which will be supported by Wellington Shire Council officers and Councillors, and Bushfire Recovery Victoria.  

Information sessions on forming CRCs will be held at Devon North Public Hall on Monday 4 April at 6pm, Gormandale Community House on Wednesday 27 April at 6pm and Heyfield Community Resource Centre on Thursday 28 April at 6pm.

Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye said assessments carried out by Council following last year's weather events found CRCs specific to a particular area could benefit a community's recovery.  

"The flood and storm event last June and the severe wind storm event in October caused widespread damage here in Wellington Shire, and the recovery process is still continuing for some of our communities," Cr Bye said.  

"Each community has its own challenges and ideas, and those directly affected by these events are in the best position to lead the recovery.

"We want to make sure our communities are resilient, can lead recovery according to their needs, and are well-prepared to respond to severe weather events in the future."