A community initiative led by a knitting group in Wonthaggi has successfully delivered handmade blankets and soft toys to victims of the Longwood fires, which began on January 7, 2023. The Close Knit group, which regularly meets at Wonthaggi Library, created these items for individuals who lost their homes and possessions in the catastrophic fires that ravaged more than 140,000 hectares of central Victorian farmland and bushland.
Facilitator Cath Moutafis explained that the group faced challenges in transporting their handmade donations to those in need. The group sought assistance from local resident Greg Lloyd, a member of the Inverloch RSL, who agreed to help facilitate the delivery. The Inverloch RSL was eager to support the cause, but determining the correct logistics was complex.
Through inquiries, it became apparent that the Hawthorn RSL Sub-Branch had established a volunteer support group named Operation Veteran Assist, actively working on the fire ground since the fires began. This connection allowed the knitting group to redirect their donations to the Hawthorn RSL for delivery to affected areas.
The local partnership expanded as Bunnings Wonthaggi contributed packing boxes and materials, while Mark Blackburn, manager of Wonthaggi Removals, offered transportation services to move the items to the company’s Dandenong depot for further couriering to the Operation Veteran Assist team. Mr. Blackburn, a former RAF veteran, expressed pride in supporting his community.
Inverloch RSL member Rod Gallagher highlighted the collaboration among volunteers, service organizations, and local businesses as a powerful example of community solidarity. “The sub-branch is grateful for the support it received from local businesses,” Mr. Gallagher stated. “Their donation of materials, time, and services made the donation by these ladies possible.”
The Longwood fire incident led to significant destruction, with hundreds of structures, including homes, lost in the devastation. The collective efforts from the Close Knit group, local businesses, and veteran support groups illustrate how communities can unite in times of crisis, providing essential support and comfort to those impacted.
