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Publish date: 21 March 2025
If there was a list of rural Australian towns that highlights innovative communities that truly care for their people, Culgoa would surely be on it.
This tight-knit town of 86 residents is deeply committed to supporting one another, with nearly half the community recently coming together at the community hall to strengthen connections, share perspectives, and build a Community Emergency Management Plan to face challenges with confidence.
At the heart of this workshop was understanding each other’s needs, with different voices heard—from emergency responders to local volunteers, farmers to health workers— all focused on practical support when times get tough.
“Culgoa’s workshop is part of a larger regional community recovery effort across Buloke, Loddon, and Gannawarra (BLG) shires to evaluate health surge workforce needs and optimise shared resources in emergency situations,” said Mayor Cr Alan Getley.
“By showing that our communities are actively engaged in planning and collaboration, we strengthen our collective ability to access resources.”
The initiative is led by the Northern District Health Service and the three Councils with support from Melbourne University. It draws on collective lessons from the October 2022 flood event and is funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments’ Community Recovery Hubs Program.
“By taking proactive action rather than simply reacting when a crisis occurs, we are hoping to ensure a more targeted and community-driven response,” said local resident, Kerri Barry.
“It was very successful and has given myself and community members the drive to continue moving forward… and an insight into the incredible possibilities.”
Facilitated by Mat Deans and Sue Rondeau from the Six C’s, who worked with Buloke Shire Council during the 2022 floods, the workshop reinforced a key message: building strength isn’t just about the emergency plan - it’s about people.
“When we take the time to understand what each community member needs, we can work together to build solutions that truly make a difference,” Kerri added.
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For further information contact Buloke Shire Council on 1300 520 520 or email media@buloke.vic.gov.au
The Culgoa community is leading the way in shaping a stronger, more connected future, having participated in an Emergency Management Planning pilot workshop in the Buloke, Loddon and Gannawarra shires.
Residents reflected on the October 2022 flood, which caused underfloor damage in parts of the town, as well as recent fire and road emergencies along the nearby Calder Highway – identifying specific health needs and support for the most vulnerable in the community.