Many Australians from all states and territories and all walks of life have been affected by the summer bushfires. Understandably, there are priorities as to where financial support goes.
A lot of money has been raised both publicly and privately but after weeks, and in some instances months, not much has reached individual people, many who are desperate and need it the most.
A number of Men’s Sheds, community gardens and other community groups have lost their premises and tools and in a lot of cases, these are the groups who are able to help out others.
Many are starting their own individual cleanup with temporary accommodation set-ups and fencing. The biggest obstacle to this is the lack of equipment because tools have been destroyed. Even if these items were insured, it’s a long haul before claims can be processed.
To remedy this, a tool drive has been started to try to re-equip some of these services. Many need basic cleaning equipment such as shovels, rakes, hoes, crowbars, wheelbarrows and yard rooms. Other items which will help the rebuilding process are hammers, screwdrivers, spanners, pliers, wire cutters, tin snips, drills, drill bits, saws and any other constructions tools.
The drive is being coordinated in Ballina at present and will be distributed across some of the smaller communities that do not have the priority for aid that the larger populated areas have.
To donate please contact Max [email protected] or by phone 0417 237 574. A pick up a service can be arrange for donations in the local area.