Disaster Relief Australia had a team of 25 volunteers in Pomonal last week to assist with clean-up duties post the February bushfires.

Volunteers from the veteran-led, not-for-profit organisation were based in Ararat as they went to work as part of Operation Wettenhall at the request of Emergency Recovery Victoria, ERV.

The volunteers will spend at least four weeks on rotation in the area to help residents with various clean-up tasks including chainsawing, sifting and the removal of bushfire debris.

Disaster Relief Australia, DRA, unites the skills and experience of former and serving Australian Defence Force, ADF, personnel and emergency service specialists with civilians to deploy volunteer disaster relief teams in Australia and around the world in the wake of disasters.

DRA chief executive Geoff Evans said the organisation was one of few that could assist with the work required.

“Whether cyclone, flood, storm or bushfire, our volunteers are equipped to step up when required,” he said.

“When the waters recede and the fires go out, our mission is to help communities begin the post disaster path to recovery. Most of our volunteers have an ADF background and, as such, can safely provide the practical assistance and gritty hard work people need to recover from disasters.

“We are honoured to serve the communities of western Victoria with this important recovery work.”

Operation Wettenhall is DRA’s fourth operation for 2024.

Volunteers have also assisted with cyclone recovery in far-north Queensland, storm recovery in south-east Queensland and long-term flood recovery in Rochester.

Mr Evans said it was DRA’s tradition to name its operations after a military veteran from the area where the work was required.

Pilot Officer Marcus Cedric Wettenhall, born in Pomonal on March 5, 1911, served as an engineer from 1928-29 and enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force in 1941. 

Residents who require assistance with bushfire recovery should request assistance through ERV’s recovery hotline on 1800 560 760 or register online at www.vic.gov.au/february-2024-western-victorian-bushfires.

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