Information sessions and events

January 2026 Mt Alexander fires: Recovering together as a community

Come together as a community, six months on from the January 2026 fires, to support one another through recovery.

Join us as we come together as a community, six months on from the January 2026 fires, to support one another through recovery.

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The event will be a chance to pause, connect and support one another, and will feature a panel discussion with Warren Davies, Michael Gordon and Michelle Roberts.

When: 5.30pm-7.30pm, Monday 15 June 2026
Where: Buda Historic Home and Garden, 42 Hunter Street, Castlemaine
Reserve a spot: Visit eth eventbrite page.

Light meals and refreshments will also be provided.

The panel discussion will be livestreamed and recorded. For more information, contact emergency.communications@dffh.vic.gov.au.

 

Harcourt and Districts Community Recovery Association Formation

Following the community meeting at the Leisure Centre on Monday 20th April, and the advice of Harcourt’s disaster recovery mentor, an EOI was sent out for community members interested in helping to come up with a proposal for the establishment of a new association to help guide and coordinate Harcourt and District’s recovery efforts.

Strong interest was received through the EOI process – demonstrating community strength and commitment. Selection of the ‘Thinking Group’ involved consideration of applicant’s individual skills and was also aimed at ensuring diversity and broad representation amongst the group. A small group of seven members were selected to reflect the wider community, including:

  • Community members directly and indirectly impacted by the fires (including those who experienced total or partial loss of property)
  • Residents from both across Harcourt and from surrounding areas also impacted by the fire
  • Prior involvement across a range of community groups to ensure broad community understanding – including sports clubs, school, Harcourt Progress Association, local businesses, and other organisations
  • Skills and experience relevant to establishing committees and incorporated associations, co-design, legal and strategic planning, and communication
  • A balance of genders

The seven members selected are: Ryan Hubbard, Donna McMahon, Rob Fowler, Jan Hull, Leigh Canet, Rebecca Edwards and John Baldock. The group is supported by Steve Pascoe (Disaster recovery mentor) and Heidi Michael (previously Interim Relief Coordinator).

The group will present their ideas and proposed model for community consideration and vote

When: 6:00pm-8:00pm, Monday 8 June 2026
Where: Harcourt Leisure Centre, Binghams Road, Harcourt

View the live stream of the event. 

 

 

Keep checking this page for information about future sessions and events.

Past information sessions
  • Business Support Day: 23 February 2026 - Talks and workshop from business advisors and government agencies. 
  • Bushfire Recovery - Q&A with Mount Alexander Shire Council and the Environment Protection Authority.
Past community meetings
VicEmergency community newsletters