Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has said the fires have left deep and lasting scars, with families, farmers, and the whole communities now coming to terms with loss that occured in a matter of hours.
“The past week has been devastating,” Ms Cleeland said. “Homes, farmland, livelihoods and essential infrastructure have been lost, and behind every loss is a family whose life has been changed forever.”
She said that access to affected areas remained one of the most urgent and difficult challenges, emphasising that road access continues to be a major concern. “I know how distressing it is for people who can’t get to their properties, their stock, or even see what remains.
“I am in constant contact with the Incident Control Centre to push for solutions that
balance safety with the urgent need for access for residents, emergency services, food, water and fodder.
She said ongoing hazards meant conditions remained dangerous in parts of the fire ground. Ms Cleeland has also met with AusNet as communities wait for clarity on when power can safely be restored.
“Crews cannot safely get in to begin repairs until roads are stable and access is restored,” she said. “As hard as it is for people waiting in the dark, power restoration is directly tied to when and where roads can be safely reopened.”
Ms Cleeland said she would continue working alongside service providers and authorities to ensure restoration is progressed safely, transparently and as quickly as conditions permit.
