In addition to the significant fire in the Longwood area, a grass fire at Yarroweyah and Muckatah on Friday, January 9, destroyed 12 homes
and damaged several other homes and rural properties.
Residents who have lost homes and major personal assets in the Yarroweyah fire have been advised they are not eligible for the Federal Government’s Disaster Recovery Payment. Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell has written to the Victorian Minister for Emergency Services and Federal Member for Emergency Management requesting eligibility be reviewed. “Disaster assistance should be based on impact,” Mr Birrell said. “People who lose their homes deserve the same support, regardless of which side of an administrative line they happen to live on.” Moira Shire confirmed Emergency Relief Payments are available from the State Government, administrated by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing.
