Two free information sessions on becoming a disaster evacuation centre volunteer are to be held in the Byron Shire this week.
Anglicare and Byron Anglicans are to host the sessions, with one scheduled for Mullumbimby, Tuesday 17 June 12.30 – 3.00pm and the other in Bangalow on Thursday 19 June 9:30 am–12:00 pm.
Both sessions are to be held in the respective village’s Anglican churches, St Martin’s in Mullumbimby and All Souls’ in Bangalow.
Bec Talbot, a Mullumbimby resident involved in local resilience planning, says Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred showed how quickly Byron’s towns can become isolated and how hard it is for external agencies to arrive in emergency.
“Community will always step in to fill the gaps,’ Ms Talbot says.
‘That’s why it’s so important we have trained locals who are equipped to assist in evacuation and recovery centres.’
Program participants are to learn recovery centre skills such as welcoming residents, distributing essential supplies, and offering emotional support.
Jennifer Booth, leader of the Murwillumbah Anglicare Team, says volunteers will only be called on during disasters and how much or how little time given is up to them.
No prior experience or religious affiliation is required to attend this week’s sessions and for more information or to register visit www.bit.ly/DRvols or call Bec Talbot on 0449 667 511.
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