Council stands united with community after bushfire
Published on 21 January 2026
Pyrenees Shire Council is working closely with affected communities following the recent bushfires that impacted the localities of Streatham, Carranballac, Skipton, Stoneleigh and surrounding districts.
Council has activated local recovery arrangements and is working alongside Emergency Recovery Victoria, neighbouring councils and support agencies to ensure affected residents can access information, services and financial assistance.
Pyrenees Shire Mayor Cr Damian Ferrari said Council’s role is focused on supporting the community through immediate and long-term recovery.
“While emergency services lead the response during a fire, Council plays a central role in recovery by coordinating local support, helping people access assistance and restoring community infrastructure,” Cr Ferrari said.
“We know recovery looks different for everyone,” Cr Ferrari said. “Our focus is on listening to the community, supporting those most impacted and making sure people are connected to the help they need.”
Some of the key recovery activities being led or supported by Pyrenees Shire Council include:
• Providing information and referrals to a wide range of relief, wellbeing, agricultural, waste, water, legal, insurance and financial support services
• Coordinating local recovery action through a Municipal Recovery Manager
• Maintaining staff at the Skipton Recovery Hub to help answer residents’ questions
• Advocating to Australian and Victorian governments for recovery funding and assistance
Council staff are currently working with residents in the fire-affected area, carrying out Secondary Impact Assessments (SIOs) to determine the fire’s impact on the community.
A detailed assessment of the damage is essential so the Municipal Recovery Team can:
• Determine what personal and property safety measures are needed
• Identify recovery requirements of individuals impacted.
• Provide advice to relevant government departments, agencies and the community.
• Effectively plan the recovery operation.
While these detailed assessments commenced within a week of the event, they are expected to take a few weeks to complete, and will help create accurate, on-the-ground data to move from an emergency response to a long-term emergency recovery phase.
Cr Ferrari said while there are many urgent needs, Council is also committed to supporting longer-term recovery and community resilience.
“Recovery is not just about rebuilding assets – it’s about rebuilding lives, livelihoods and community connection,” he said. “Council will continue to walk alongside our communities for as long as it takes.”
Residents seeking recovery support or information are encouraged to visit Council’s dedicated webpage at www.pyrenees.vic.gov.au/Emergencies/After/Bushfire-Support-And-Advice or contact Council directly at 1300 797 363 or via email at pyrenees@pyrenees.vic.gov.au