Overwhelming support

A Gippsland-based appeal for East Gippsland bushfire victims has been overwhelmed with donations as locals dig deep to offer support.

The Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund (GERF) confirmed late yesterday it was more than halfway to achieving its $5 million target to offer immediate assistance to those impacted in the East Gippsland bushfires.

Since being launched on December 31, GERF has raised $2,814,725.

However, with an estimated 1600 properties impacted, there is still a long way to go.

GERF president John Mitchell said the funds would be distributed to impacted families for discretionary use while insurance and government claims are processed.

Donations can be made via Paypal at www.gerf.org.au, at any branch of the NAB across Australia or by sending a cheque or money order to Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund, PO Box 508, Traralgon VIC 3844.

Having been impacted by bushfire last summer, the Bunyip community has been quick to rally its support to East Gippsland.

The Bunyip Fire Brigade has coordinated the delivery of 350 pallets of bottled water into the region to date to assist communities impacted as well as emergency personnel on the ground.

The brigade stated it had been “a fantastic effort by everyone over the last two weeks with over 350 pallets so far donated, eight pallets of ration packs, personal items, gift cards and hand tools sent to support the communities that have lost so much”.

The brigade is looking to do one final run of water to East Gippsland on Saturday.

To find out how to donate, visit facebook.com/bunyipcfa.

Warragul RSL was the meeting point for 72 veterans on Saturday morning before their deployment to the East Gippsland firegrounds.

Members of the Warragul RSL provided a cooked breakfast and logistical support for the veterans taking part in the RSL Victoria initiated “Operation Veteran Assist” before they left for Bairnsdale, Bruthen and Orbost. They will provide on the ground assistance to veterans and RSL sub-branches in East Gippsland who have been directly affected by bushfires.

In addition to logistical support, Warragul RSL president Bill Westhead announced a donation of $1000 to Operation Veterans Assist. He said the operation was expected to continue for some months.

Mr Westhead said veterans had raised about $17,000 for Operation Veteran Assist along with equipment and logistical expertise.