Sussex Inlet residents have faced catastrophic bushfires and two floods in 2020. Now they're determined to be self-sufficient next time disaster strikes.
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Sandra Grey, of Sussex Inlet and Districts Community Forum Committee, said residents felt let down by the lack of support from government and emergency services.
"We were begging for support during the fires, and nothing came," she said.
"We were underwhelmed by the response to last week's floods. There is too much bureaucratic policy and no logical, practical decisions."
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The closest evacuation centre to Sussex Inlet during the fires was at St Georges Basin, however, the roads were often closed, making it impossible for residents to get out.
More recently, Ms Grey said, during the floods residents were encouraged to evacuate to family and friends, which was also an impossibility once roads closed.
She said the community wants their own evacuation centre, and both the local RSL Club and Bowling Club have offered to fill the breach.
The RSL is most appropriate for fire threat, while the Bowling Club is most appropriate in case of flood.
All they need now is a community backup generator.
"When the power went down, we couldn't get any information," she said.
"Neither club is large enough to need its own backup generator. If we get a generator or a trailer with a fule tank also on a trailer it might be a better use of resources than buying two."
She wants all levels of government to come to the table and help the community make the purchase.
"We're not going to wait for someone to save us, we're going to take control back," she said.
"It's liberating for the community. Government has to give us what we need, not what they say we will have."
The community will hold a meeting on Monday, August 17 from 6.30pm-8.30pm at Thompson Street Large Hall Sussex Inlet.
RSVP is essential due to COVID Safe requirements. Email secretary@sussexdistrictsforum.com.au by Friday August 14 to attend.