How You Can Help
The recent bushfires are the worst natural disaster in Victoria's history. Fire and emergency services staff and volunteers continue to work tirelessly - and you can play a part in supporting Victorians in need.
Artists wanting to work in fire affected communities
Many artists have expressed interest in working with fire affected communities. Working in communities which have suffered trauma is complex, requires adequate resources and support mechanisms, as well as a strong understanding of what is happening on the ground.
It is recommended that you do not attempt to establish projects in these areas unless:
- you are specifically invited by local organisations, and
- you have sought advice from an organisation or agency which is engaged in working with the community and has up to date, first hand knowledge of what is needed.
Arts Victoria is working with other government departments, agencies and NGOs to develop responses which are both strategic and sensitive to the immediate and longer term needs of these communities. If you are interested in initiatives that emerge from this work please:
- regularly visit the Arts Victoria and Regional Arts Victoria websites, and
- subscribe to Arts Victoria's email news bulletin, eNews which will be used to disseminate relevant information about developments.
Donations of Musical Instruments
The Music Council of Australia's Resound program, in partnership with the Dandenong Ranges Music Council, is organising donations of musical instruments to musicians of all ages and ability who have lost instruments in the Victorian bushfires.
For more information about Resound, visit the Music Council of Australia website.
If you are interested in donating an instrument, please contact Rachael Hocking on e: rhocking@mca.org.au
Donations of Books
Romance Writers Australia is collecting books, new or in pristine condition, for everyone from children upwards, to give to the devastated communities. As readers and writers, we know that books - especially feel-good escapist books with happy endings - can bring comfort and time out from the problems people face in times of crisis.
For more information, visit the Romance Writers Australia website.
Please send all books to:
RWA Bushfire Book Appeal
c/- 89 Rennie St
Thornbury Victoria 3071
Donations of Artworks
The City of Yarra is hosting a gala art auction at the Fitzroy Town Hall on Thursday 21 May 2009 with all proceeds going to the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund. Many Gippsland artists have already generously donated artworks for the auction. If you have an artwork that you could donate please contact Dawn Stubb on p: (03) 51 45 8282. The call for donations will close on Sunday 29 March 2009.