Black Saturday anniversary funds

THE Victorian Government will spend $4.4 million to mark the 10-year anniversary of the devastating Black Saturday bushfires.

The 2009 disaster claimed the lives of 173 people, injured a further 400 and destroyed more than 2000 homes.

The Government said the funds would support anniversary activities in affected communities, a state memorial service, community grants and mental health services.

“These catastrophic events still impact on many of our communities today and it is important we allow those communities to commemorate this anniversary in their own way,” Emergency Services Minister James Merlino said yesterday.

Governor of Victoria Linda Dessau will tour affected areas in her role as patron for the commemorations.

More support services will be made available during the anniversary period, including for schools and emergency workers. CFA chief officer Steve Warrington said it was essential the wellbeing of brigades, former members and the communities they serve and protect, was top priority.

“While this is a significant date of remembrance … it is going to be challenging for the people, including emergency services, community and government employees, who were directly involved in the fires and their aftermath,” he said.