“It’s a community that’s organised, informed and determined to see positive outcomes.”
The WWAG formed after widespread frustration following a community meeting in March 2025, and has since built formal focus groups tackling some of the region’s most pressing issues – from fire management and emergency services funding to dingo control and livestock losses.
Mr Bennett said much of the work had been carried out ‘quietly and voluntarily’, with members donating thousands of hours to research, data collection, reporting and direct engagement with government agencies.
With regular agency meetings now secured and a state election on the horizon, Mr Bennett said the next phase would focus on maintaining pressure, expanding community engagement –particularly among younger residents – and ensuring rural voices remain front and centre.
He said one of the group’s most significant achievements had been its work following the Little Desert fire in January 2025.
The fire focus group documented property damage, fencing losses, volunteer firefighting efforts and the emotional toll on residents through a detailed community survey with 106 respondents, showing the 106 volunteers saved the government more than $1-million in volunteer time and equipment and incurred more than $1.5-million damages to property.
“That information was compiled into a formal report and taken directly to state agencies, ensuring local voices were heard by those responsible for fire management,” Mr Bennett said.
“As a result of several positive conversations, formal meetings with DEECA and Forest Fire Management are set to begin, creating an ongoing channel for discussion around fuel loads, planned burns and fire preparedness.”
ESVF
Emergency services funding was also a strong focus of the group, with members questioning the fairness of a system that relies heavily on funding coming from the unpaid volunteers who provide the emergency services during major fire events.
WWAG compiled data to show the inequality of the ESVF across Victoria.
The Grass Flat fire – fought under record conditions and stopped in four hours predominantly by local volunteers – was cited as a stark example of the value provided by communities, and the growing push to revisit the ESVF ahead of the next state election aiming for a fair and equitable funding scheme.
Dingo losses
The dingo focus group reported ongoing efforts to improve transparency in dingo management across northwest Victoria, including four freedom of information matters now before VCAT.
The group has documented 27 suspected dingo attacks on livestock, resulting in losses of more than 2500 sheep by local producers.
DNA testing is being undertaken, and this will play a significant role in the group’s advocacy.
While the genetic results to date were not conclusive, strong circumstantial evidence – dingo sightings, DEECA camera footage, and the complete absence of domestic dogs in the area – continues to support that dingoes were responsible.
“We remain committed to building the best possible evidence base despite the challenges,” Mr Bennett said.
WWAG will host an annual general meeting after the end of the financial year, with members encouraged to consider nominating for the committee and playing a role in shaping the group’s future. People can contact WWAG by emailing wwag2025@gmail.com.
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