Following the 2022 floods, the plan aims to acknowledges the impact of natural disasters on rural communities while highlighting the importance of social inclusion and connectedness in supporting recovery.
The plan is funded by the Victorian and federal governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
Gannawarra Shire Council chief executive Geoff Rollinson said the plan outlined council’s commitment to ensuring every resident felt valued, safe and connected, while also meeting council’s requirement to develop and implement a Disability Action Plan.
“As we have seen during times of drought, floods and other adverse events, our residents come together to support one another,” Mr Rollinson said.
“However, our community has also told us there are key priorities that council can lead and support to better address the compounding impacts of adverse events, particularly the impact these events have on our small, agriculture-dependent communities.
“Alongside investments in emergency preparedness, the Thriving Together plan supports initiatives to reduce barriers, strengthen inclusion and enhance community connections through ongoing collaboration between council, local organisations, schools, service providers, community groups, volunteers and residents.
“The plan builds on the achievements of council’s Social Inclusion Strategy 2019-2023, which included the installation of three All Abilities Play Spaces in Kerang, Cohuna and Koondrook, a Changing Places facility at Atkinson Park in Kerang, and improved disability parking and footpaths as part of streetscape upgrades.”
Mr Rollinson said feedback would assist with the development of the final version of the plan, which will be presented to council at a later date.
Residents can have their say on the draft Thriving Together plan by completing a Have Your Say form, available at gsc.vic.gov.au/yoursay or from council’s customer service centres at Cohuna and Kerang.
Residents can also provide feedback on the plan by emailing council@gsc.vic.gov.au, writing to PO Box 287, Kerang, Vic 3579 or by phoning council on 5450 9333.
