UPDATE: Jacinta Allan, the Premier of Victoria, has shared her deep emotional connection to Harcourt, a town recently ravaged by devastating bushfires. Speaking at a press conference on January 11, 2025, Allan emphasized the urgent need for community support as residents face the aftermath of the Ravenswood fire.
“My kids went to kinder in Harcourt, so we feel a very close attachment to that beautiful community,” Allan stated, highlighting her family’s ties to the area. The Premier was ordered to evacuate her home on January 9 as the flames threatened her neighborhood. While she expressed a “sickening feeling” about leaving, Allan shared her relief that their home remains intact.
The fire has left a devastating mark on Harcourt, resulting in the destruction of 47 homes and 3 businesses, including the Coolstore and a local café. Tragically, one person is believed to have died from a medical episode during the blaze. As of now, residents are still unable to return home while authorities assess and remove dangerous hazards in the area.
Allan praised the local community for their resilience, stating, “It demonstrates in the toughest of times, our beautiful community comes together and supports one another.” She stressed the importance of ongoing support for those affected, declaring, “The recovery journey is a long one.”
In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters joined Allan at the Epsom incident control center to announce a relief package worth $5 million. This funding aims to ensure that caseworkers can effectively assist victims in accessing housing and financial support.
“We are here to ensure that necessary federal government agencies will be present to help,” Chesters said, underscoring that many residents are still in shock. A recovery hub is set to open at the Castlemaine Town Hall on January 12 to provide additional resources.
The local relief center at the Bendigo Showgrounds remains operational, with authorities urging those affected to seek assistance. Acting City of Greater Bendigo chief executive Brian Westly reported a low number of people seeking relief, noting the remarkable efforts of staff in dealing with the complex emotional toll on evacuees.
As recovery efforts ramp up, residents are advised against drinking the town’s water until further notice. The Calder Freeway has reopened after days of closure, but train services between Bendigo and Melbourne remain suspended due to damage to the railway bridge at Harcourt.
Authorities have also warned against “fire zone tourists,” urging the public to stay away from affected areas to allow recovery operations to proceed smoothly.
As support efforts unfold, the community of Harcourt is coming together to rebuild and heal from this tragic disaster. Allan’s heartfelt remarks continue to resonate as residents confront the long road to recovery.
