Community members are coming together to participate in support sessions with specialist disaster psychologists one year on from the catastrophic storm event which impacted the Dandenong Ranges.
Residents met at Kalorama’s Karwarra Gardens today to have a quiet chat, cup of tea and some cakes or soup in a session organised by Yarra Ranges Council with support from Anglicare, Windermere, EACH and Inspiro.
“An absolute stand out for me looking back was how the community came together to support each other in their times of need and how they continue to work hard going forward, making sure that there are opportunities to connect and spend time together supporting each other,” Yarra Ranges Mayor Councillor Jim Child said.
Council also received $190,000 from the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing which has funded a number of support sessions with specialist disaster psychologists and a program of activities that support the most impacted community and is working closely with other agencies that have received state funding to refer residents who might benefit from specific case-management support.
Community events held by Yarra Ranges Council will also be located at Sassafras Hall on Thursday 9 June and Mt Evelyn Community House.
“There are also a wide variety of community events taking place across the area ranging from BBQs to tree plantings. Council’s website has more details,” Mayor Jim Child said.
