General News
12 May, 2025
Getting ready for weather disasters
Living in the Wimmera Southern Mallee, we know the risk of extreme weather.
This summer, fire burnt 200,000ha in and around the Grampians and Little Desert and parts of West Wimmera Shire are currently drought declared impacts of extreme weather costs Australian homeowners $4 billion annually, and this is expected to more than double to $8.7 billion by 2050.
Unfortunately only one in four small to medium businesses nationally plans ahead for such business disruptions.
WSM Business Connect group hopes to boost the planning locally with a free webinar on May 26.
Named Weathering Disasters, it will feature local speakers sharing their stories, insights and tips for ongoing business resilience.
Nurcoung farmer Fiona Cameron will talk about her experiences in both fire and drought.
In 1995, two days after she and husband Darren moved to their farm, Mrs Cameron noticed smoke as she travelled home from a nursing nightshift.
“I saw the smoke in the distance and thought it may be out the way of my new home and farm. Fortunately the fire was northwest of us and in the afternoon we had a wind change and were no longer under threat.”
Since then, the Camerons have faced one serious fire every 10 years and learned plenty about preparation.
In January when lightning ignited multiple Little Desert fires, the family, which now includes daughter Lily, sprang into action.
“I move the livestock; Darren gets the vehicles ready. We know what to do,” Mrs Cameron said.
“This summer we were the lucky ones compared to some neighbours and while it was daunting at times, the fire also highlighted what a supportive and wonderful community we live in.”
Wimmera Emergency Management Coordinator Kristi Sullivan will outline councils’ roles in emergency and reflect on her own experiences supporting community and business in a range of emergencies within and beyond the Wimmera.
have experienced everything from extreme heat, floods, bushfires and even tornadoes.”
“This fire season has been a difficult time for our community and businesses. It highlighted the necessity for everyone to be prepared and to have a plan in place.
Other webinar topics will include a business’s planning process, building workplace resilience and information about supports and disaster planning.
Weathering Disasters is on May 26, from 11am. Watch for booking details on WSM Development socials.