Victorian Bushfires
On Monday we faced the stark and tragic fact that many in our University community had their lives changed forever by the bushfires that swept through Victoria at the weekend – one of the worst natural disasters in recent times.
With more than 180 deaths currently reported, the trail of human and physical destruction is impossible to comprehend. We know that we have lost members of staff, students and La Trobe alumni in this tragedy – and our thoughts and condolences go out to all family and friends of those who have perished. We have set up various forms of support for staff who have lost their homes.
Many of our campuses were close to, or in the path of firestorms and fortunately we can report that all so far remain unscathed. But our staff, students and our wider communities are suffering and we will continue to support them to the best of our ability. I have listed below some of the activities already underway across the University and also ways in which you might want to help as individuals.
Accommodation Bendigo: The University responded to an early request from the Emergency coordination services for short term accommodation. We had 9 people stay in our student residences on Sunday night, and 6 on Monday. We will continue to make this available for the next two weeks and will work with the Housing Authority on strategies for accommodation once students return to the campus. We are also working to make some self-contained accommodation available should affected staff need this for the short to medium term.
Accommodation Beechworth: We have made 92 beds available to fire fighters and other volunteers at present, and are ready to make more available if necessary.
Accommodation Bundoora: We have made self contained accommodation available to affected staff and this offer has already been taken up. We are also assembling any whitegoods and furnishings that we will be able to make available if requested.
Our local communities: We are liaising with local governments and the communities directly surrounding our campuses to discuss how we can assist with their longer terms responses to the bushfire devastation.
Financial contributions: There are many staff who have indicated they would like to make a financial contribution to assist colleagues who have been severely affected by this tragedy. To enable this to happen easily, we have established the La Trobe University Staff Bushfire Appeal where staff can contribute through payroll deductions over the next three pay periods. If you would like to make a donation to the broader community, the Victorian government has set up the 2009 Victorian Bushfire Appeal in partnership with the Red Cross, with further information available at www.redcross.org.au or 1800 811 700.
Donating blood: There are many people who are injured as a result of the fires and receiving medical care and donations of blood are keenly sought. Blood donations are organised through the Red Cross (phone 13 14 95). The Red Cross will take details and make arrangements for you to make a blood donation at a local collection point.
Supporting volunteers: A large number of staff and alumni have volunteered during this crisis and we thank you all for your continuing dedication and bravery during the most horrific of circumstances. We are supporting our staff volunteers with flexible leave and working arrangements.
Counselling services: Counselling for staff has been organised through the University's Employee Assistance Program. The EAP provider, ResolutionsRTK has mobilised a specialist team to assist people regarding the bushfire.
If you have any further suggestions regarding assistance and support for our community in these difficult circumstances please email Dr Muyesser Durur, Executive Director, People and Culture on m.durur@latrobe.edu.au or mob: 0427 120 888.
Paul Johnson
Vice-Chancellor
Wednesday, 11 February 2009