Few rural towns were untouched by the recent drought. Many regions are still reeling from its impact and some areas are yet to come out of it. Before any Federal and State Government funding relief was announced, Moira Shire took action. It was the first Council in Victoria to do so. Council organised a bus that travelled to all towns in the Shire to let people know what services were available to assist them.
The first tour took place in December 2002 and then returned in February 2003 to build on the relationships that had been established. On board the bus were Councillors and Council staff, social workers, Centrelink and Moira Community Health Services staff and rural financial counsellors. There were also Department of Primary Industry representatives who provided advice on feeding stock.
Council also set up the Moira Drought Recovery Committee which organised counselling services and provided information on funding availability and eligibility.
The Shire fully recognised that the drought was not just about farmers but effected everyone in the town. Through various barbecues and community fun days funded by Council, this program clearly demonstrated the extent to which local communities are ready and willing to help each other.
