A message from the Mayor

The past few months have been devastating for our country.

Unprecedented bushfires have destroyed homes, livelihoods, habitats, animals, and, tragically, human lives.

My thoughts and those of my fellow Councillors are with everyone affected by the fires, as well as those affected by the smoke and dust that’s been settling on our city.

On behalf of Yarra City Council and all of my fellow councillors I would like to formally extend our deepest gratitude to everyone in the emergency services that have been, and continue to, battle the fires. And the many thousands of people involved in relief and support efforts for the communities that have been devastated by this disaster.

I am always enormously proud of the Yarra community, and especially at a time like this. Our community, local businesses and community groups have been so keen to help their neighbours in this time of need.

From fundraising and donating, to on-the-ground volunteering, the people of Yarra have shown great collective compassion and generosity.

Yarra Council has deployed several staff members trained in emergency management to help communities directly affected by the fires in the Towonga and Alpine shire councils in the Corryong, Tallangatta and Wodonga areas. Staff worked alongside volunteers from the Salvation Army and the Red Cross, and staff from the Department of Health and Human Services to pack and sort supplies, provide food and clothing to the community, and support community meetings including arranging live streaming for those that couldn’t attend in person. The team also helped to run the Corryong Emergency Relief Centre for a few days.

Others have been helping to coordinate relief efforts from our base here in Yarra, and have been supporting local fundraising efforts. I know the local communities have been very appreciative, as I am.

We will continue to support fundraising and relief efforts and if you are able, I encourage you to as well. The Victorian Bushfire Appeal being run by Bendigo Bank is an easy and official channel for donations and ensures that 100% of funds go directly to communities in need.

We will continue to keep our community updated through our online channels.

In the meantime, my heartfelt thanks to all of you that are supporting relief efforts.

Get involved

Donate to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal

At this point in time donating money is the best way you can help those impacted by the bushfires. 

The Victorian Government has partnered with Bendigo Bank and the Salvation Army to establish the Victorian Bushfire Appeal, with 100% of donated funds going directly to communities in need.

Donations can be made at any Bendigo Bank branch or online at Community Enterprise Foundation.

Fundraising events 

If you haven't already got involved, many Yarra groups and businesses are holding fundraisers. 

To find out what's happening near you, or to share details about a bushfire fundraiser, visit our community event calendar.

More information about health effects

If you’re concerned about the health effects of the fire and the poor air quality, visit Vic Health.