Government Steps Up: New Worker Support Payments Released as Grampians Blaze Contained Amid Cooler Weather

Firefighters are tackling a wildfire in Grampians National Park, western Victoria, following destruction on Boxing Day. The blaze has claimed at least three homes and damaged numerous farm buildings, with authorities currently evaluating the extent of the devastation.

The federal government has unveiled a financial assistance initiative for workers and sole traders in Victoria who have been adversely impacted by the bushfires in Grampians National Park. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that the Disaster Recovery Payment will commence tomorrow at 2pm, offering affected individuals up to 13 weeks of income support. Individuals seeking aid can submit their applications through the MyGov website or by contacting the Australian Government Emergency Information hotline at 180 2266.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan highlighted that these worker payments are in addition to earlier allocations designated for individuals suffering due to the fire's devastation. During their tour of the fire-ravaged areas today, Mr. Albanese and Ms. Allan are assessing firsthand the damage caused by a significant blaze that has consumed approximately 74,000 hectares, resulting in the destruction of three homes and numerous sheds.

The residences lost are situated in the vicinity of Moyston, near Ararat in western Victoria, alongside the 11 sheds destroyed in adjoining areas including Moyston and Pomonal. Mr. Albanese expressed his gratitude to all the personnel engaged in firefighting efforts and those providing assistance to the affected communities. He remarked on the inspiring dedication and spirit of cooperation from individuals working to support one another during this challenging time.

As the government announces financial support, fire authorities report that cooler weather conditions are expected to aid in containing the ongoing blaze in the upcoming days. Luke Heagerty, a spokesperson for the State Control Centre, noted that the containment efforts are projected to take several weeks. He emphasized that these conditions will likely diminish the risk of the fire spreading to nearby communities, stating that the next week appears favorable for their operations.

A Watch and Act alert remains in effect for several towns adjacent to the Grampians region, including Dunkeld, Glenthompson, Willaura, Moyston, and Pomonal. The community of Pomonal has faced two major fires in just under a year, one of which in February resulted in the destruction of 45 homes, fortunately without any reported fatalities.

Authorities are still conducting impact assessments, but preliminary reports indicate substantial damage to farms in the vicinity. One farmer, Andy Nagorcka, witnessed around 30 hectares of his land scorched south of the larger Grampians fire. He mentioned that extensive fence damage has occurred, estimating losses between $20,000 and $30,000 pending an insurance assessment. Agriculture Victoria is collaborating with fire authorities and has established a dedicated hotline, 1800 226 226, to assist affected farmers seeking help.

As the summer months approach, Mr. Nagorcka has expressed concerns regarding potential future incidents, indicating that the community is bracing for an anxious wait while they assess any further developments. Other local farmers have been compelled to make the difficult decision to euthanize livestock harmed by the fires.

On a more positive note, residents of Halls Gap received the green light to return home, albeit tourists were advised to stay away from the area. Mark Treweek, owner of Halls Gap Zoo, had previously relocated many animals to safety but reported that the zoo itself remained intact. He has been tirelessly working to clean up debris and ensure the animals are well cared for amidst the chaos. A fundraising initiative has been launched to assist with the zoo's operational costs.

Mr. Treweek acknowledged the overwhelming support from the community and local fire services, expressing a desire to reciprocate by contributing to the Country Fire Authority. Northern Grampians Shire Mayor Karen Hyslop conveyed her belief that residents will focus on rebuilding their lives, showcasing their resilience and sense of community spirit in the face of adversity.

Furthermore, Terry Keilar, president of the Moyston Willaura Football Netball Club, expressed intentions to reach out to affected families within the sports community, emphasizing their commitment to support one another during these trying times. For individuals affected by the fires, one-off payments are being made available, which include a sum of $680 for adults and half of that for children, capping at $2,380 per eligible household to assist with essential expenses.