Rebuilding After the Fires
MEDIA RELEASE 12 March 2009
The close-knit communities of Murrindindi, Nillumbik, Whittlesea and Yarra Ranges Shires are looking to re-design, re-construct and re-build their devastated communities.
To assist this process, the Kinglake Action Network and Development Organistion (KANDO), Eltham College and Permaculture Kinglake Ranges have come together to present a series of community forums – ‘After the Fires’.
The first forum, to be held Saturday 21 March 12-5pm at Eltham College will feature three leading speakers examining community design from diverse perspectives.
Ian Dunlop, former CEO of the Institute of Company Directors highlights the impact of climate change.
”Bad things are already happening. We have very little time. While we argue, nature acts. The best tribute we can pay to the victims of the Victorian bushfires is to now start taking global warming seriously and stop playing political games,” Ian said.
Peri-urban communities are vulnerable to many issues. They often lack basic planning, taken-for-granted infrastructure and viable local economies. Families are dependent on Melbourne for income and for their day-to-day goods and services.
Permaculture co-founder David Holmgren will outline key design principles for building more resilient communities and more fire-resistant properties.
”Climate change and peak oil means we are going to experience more extreme weather events and serious adaptation challenges. Our current way of life suggests we may not weather the coming storms as well as we should,” says David.
“New design principles are needed to generate new strategies in a world of change and uncertainty. Such approaches need to be tuned to emerging, rather than past conditions.’ David is the author of The Flywire House – A Case Study in Design against Bushfire.
Joan Webster, community fire educator and author of ‘The Complete Bushfire Safety Book’ looks at house design and human behaviour to reduce the impact of bushfires.
“Knowing how to prepare your house, and knowing what to do during bushfire, when to do it, and why, has saved many lives, homes, and animals,” said Joan.’
“It is vital that people understand how to protect themselves, their friends and their family.”
To register for the first ‘After the Fires’ public forum, please contact Daryl Taylor on 5786 1804 or by email on [email protected]
Eltham College is located at 1660 Main Road, Research. The Community Forum will be held from midday in the Main Auditorium. Please enter through the Eltham College Library.
