Anthony Basford is CEO of East Gippsland Shire Council, including the communities of Mallacoota, Buchan, Omeo and Cann River that were at the epicentre of Victoria’s summer bushfires.

We are taking a positive view of the world, despite many recent challenges. East Gippsland has been significantly hit by drought, bushfires, COVID-19 and government timber and fishing policies. But the shining light is the opportunities for communities, organisations and individuals.

The region is emerging from hibernation – burnt forests are regrowing and we had good visitor numbers returning. Community recovery committees are focusing on local priorities. What’s done is done, but there’s a chance to improve our region through State and Commonwealth funding, as we’ve received millions of dollars to replace infrastructure, support communities and promote economic recovery.

Capital programs are important, but we’re considering what ongoing economic activity can be created. How can we improve tourism offerings, especially while people can’t travel overseas? Buchan Caves is the most-visited place in East Gippsland and Parks Victoria is looking at investing in the site, so we’re collaborating on how to connect that investment back to the town and what opportunities exist to grow Buchan and local visitation.

It’s such a resilient community. I met a farmer recently who’d been burnt out three years of the last four, but he’s staying put. People are hurting, but they’re getting on with things.

Coronavirus impacted council’s ability to support people through recovery: normally, we’d bring them together for events, BBQs and face-to-face meetings, but that’s been off the table. We’ve had to do things differently through video-conferences and empowering community-led recovery.

Our greatest challenge now is ensuring there’s a positive long-term legacy from these extreme events. I’m proud of our community, and people within our organisation who’ve worked against the odds for six months. East Gippsland is still a fabulous place to live, work, invest and visit – we are here, we’ll make the most of our opportunities, and we welcome everyone to be part of our future.

Anthony Basford
Chief Executive Officer
East Gippsland Shire Council