Dear Church Councillors,

The Presbytery has recently received these updated documents from the Synod concerning their policies and actions in times of fire, flood and disaster. The Presbytery is duly passing them on to you, not to be filed, but to be read and discussed by you.

While each of these documents clearly state that the policies that they contain are for Synod Staff and committee members, they carry a wisdom that is relevant for all Uniting Church councils. I also offer the following remarks.

1. The Presbytery of North East Victoria has resolved to cancel all meetings that involve travel on Catastrophic Fire days.
2. Even if you are meeting online, it might be prudent to postpone a meeting on Catastrophic Fire days in your area, so that people can pay proper attention to the danger they pose. This will allow them to put their fire safe and evacuation plan into place, and if necessary, carry it out in good time.
3. We need to remember that much of North East Victoria is situated on riverine flood plains, and rivers will do what rivers do – carry large volumes of water, often depositing them in inconvenient places for humans and live-stock.
4. As a long term member of the State Emergency Service, I can attest that cars do float, so never drive through flood waters. The rear part of the car is picked up first, the car is turned, and you have lost control, and are now at the mercy of the water system you are in!
5. Consider cancelling any travel at night when heavy storms are predicted for your area, as drivers frequently cannot see flood waters coming across the road until it is too late. Almost every flood event in the last few years has produced at least one fatality, usually locals “who know the road”.
6. The document on Disaster Response Arrangements outlines the Synod’s response to disasters. You will see that it outlines a process of liaising with Presbyteries who would in turn be liaising with your Council as the people on the ground. Remember that the Moderator has a very healthy budget to assist congregations over the long term. The Church also has access to some wonderful expertise that can help you and your community through the long phases of recovery. Please do not be shy in asking for assistance. It is never too late!

If any of these documents throw up questions for your Council, then please do not hesitate to contact me as the person designated by the Presbytery to assist you in these matters of emergency and recovery.

Tony Davies

Mobile: 0417 457 568
Email: revtonydavies@bigpond.com