Hundreds of people have attended an emergency relief centre in Lorne following flooding, leading to many needing to evacuate the region.
Close to 200 people attended the centre at Stribling Reserve during its first night of opening on 15 January, following flash flooding across Wye River, Kennett River, Cumberland River, Lorne and surrounds.
Most centre attendees evacuated from nearby caravan parks and were able to arrange to be picked up by friends and family, or took up offers of overnight accommodation from community members.
Around 40 people stayed overnight at Lorne Surf Life Saving Club, and a small number remained at the emergency relief centre.
Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said the Surf Coast community had been “amazing” in helping to support those in need.
“Lorne Surf Life Saving Club opened its doors to people needing shelter, as did the Stribling Reserve community asset committee,” she said.
“(The committee) opened the pavilion for immediate shelter before it was officially activated as an emergency relief centre.
“We had the op shop and school donating blankets and clothes, the Sikh Community Greater Geelong arrived at the relief centre to serve meals, and Feed Me Surf Coast sent a van full of food.
“Many people in the community offered their help or made their homes available for people to stay in overnight, which has been a great example of a local community pulling together at a time of need.”
The centre will continue to remain open until further notice to provide a free and safe location with shelter, food, water and non-food items like bedding and clothing for people who need it.
A dedicated council webpage provides updates about its emergency response at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/lorneflood with crews inspecting trees, roads and infrastructure across the shire.
“Thank you again to emergency services, community members and volunteers for your continuing efforts,” Mayor Stapleton said.
“Our priority is still the wellbeing and safety of everyone impacted. Please follow emergency advice about returning to affected areas and avoid flood waters.”
The community is urged to stay informed through the VicEmergency app or website, and follow the emergency advice closely.
