Food, water and other essentials

Free to air TV is back

Free-to-air TV services have been restored following the installation of new transmission equipment at Mt Alexander. ABC radio services are expected to return later this week.

The signal may be unstable initially. This is expected to improve in coming days. 

Harcourt Leisure Centre Relief Support

The Harcourt Leisure Centre is open from 10.00am - 2.00pm on Wednesdays and Fridays during February. 

The following is available at the Leisure Centre:

  • Support services (financial, Services Australia, wellbeing)

  • Free pantry and household items 

  • Showers

 
Food pantry
Castlemaine Community House also has a food pantry that is open all week from 9.00am to 3.00pm for anyone who needs it.
 
Water

Water has been restored to Harcourt. The 'Do Not Drink' advisory for Harcourt and areas south of Harcourt is now lifted. Your water is safe to drink. See Coliban Water's website for details. It is recommended that you run internal taps for two minutes to draw fresh water through your plumbing. 

See the Coliban Water FAQ for information about water supply and quality in Harcourt.

Water tanks

Replacement water is available for residents who are not connected to town water and rely on water tanks for their household supply. Find out more about the Victorian Government's emergency relief drinking water program for people affected by the January 2026 fires. 

The Department of Health has information about preparing your water tank after a bushfire.

Meal support

Castlemaine Meal Train is providing homemade meals for those with young families affected by the fires. They are also collecting/distributing nappies, kids clothing, toys. Email: castlemainemealtrain@gmail.com.

Laundry

Sac 'O' Suds Launderette are offering Harcourt residents assistance with washing and drying. They can also pick up and drop off. Reach out – they're located at 231 Barker St, Castlemaine from 7.00am to 7.00pm.

Clothing and kitchen supplies
Local op shops are offering items for free to people affected by the fires. Please visit Castlemaine Salvos, Windarring Castlemaine Recycled Store, MAAW Op Shop and The Good Op Shop if you are in need.
 
Pet food and supplies
The Regional Community Vet Clinic Castlemaine is offering free pet food and has a limited supply of leads, pet beds and bowls. Call 0493 447 394 for help.

Mail redirection 

Australia Post is supporting communities affected by the recent bushfires by providing free mail redirection for up to 12 months for affected residents. For further information and how to apply visit Australia Post's mail redirection for special circumstances page.  

Moving truck

The Maine Movers are donating one day a week to residents who need the use of a truck. Get in touch on 0497 541 240.

West End Resilience Volunteer Notice Board

It can take time for formal support systems to kick-in, so until Sunday 18 January (longer if needed), West End Resilience will coordinate a volunteer notice board. It is an informal, community-based way to connect people wanting or needing support with those offering support, including:

  • Transport - people, goods, shopping
  • Vehicle/trailer use
  • Generators
  • Borrowing tools
  • Use of appliances
  • Life administration
  • Temporary housing / work space
  • Manual labour
  • Skilled labour
  • Care - kids, pets and things
  • Mental & physical health
  • Meals
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