Food, water and other essentials
Community lunches
Community Lunches, following the closure of the Relief Hub at Harcourt Leisure Centre, will be now held at the Harcourt Valley Community House. Bring a container in case there are leftovers.
When: every Friday, 12.00am - 1.30pm
Where: Harcourt Valley Community House, 23 Station Street, Harcourt (in the old train station)
Food pantries
Harcourt Valley Community House Community Pantry offers food and staples for anyone in need.
When: Every Friday, 10.00am - 3.00pm
Where: Harcourt Valley Community House, 23 Station Street, Harcourt (in the old train station)
Castlemaine Community House food pantry is open for anyone and everyone
When: 9.00am to 3.00pm, Monday to Friday
Where: Castlemaine Community House, 30 Templeton Street, Castlemaine
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.
Rates
To help our community focus on recovery, we’re postponing the next rates notices by one month. The due date has been extended from 28 February to 31 March for all residents across the shire. Find out more in the media release.
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.
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
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.
Stock feed
The Harcourt Relief Committee on behalf of Harcourt Progress Association alongside community members are coordinating a short term, fair, needs-based distribution of donated feed, for his affected by the bushfires.
Available now (small feed Items):
Location: Shipping containers, Coolstore Road, Harcourt (middle row)
When: Saturdays, 10.00 - 11:30am
Feed type: Small grass hay bales, dog food and Calm Performer horse feed
Conditions: Quantity limits apply. Forms available on site.
Large and round bales:
Step 1: Collect and complete forms at Statewide Irrigation Castlemaine, 84 Forest Street, Castlemaine
Step 2: Pick up (with completed form) from Tony Cordy, 76 Woodbrook Road, Ravenswood South
Pick‑up time: Saturdays, 8.00 - 11.00am
Enquiries: Marc 0409 513 783, Tony 0439 742 434