Nanneella Memorial Hall hosted an important information session recently, supporting farmers impacted by the 2022 floods.
Partners in Wellbeing mental health consultant Katie Lynde was there and spoke about the ongoing support for people whose lives were negatively impacted.
“The Partners In Wellbeing Flood Team, funded by the Victorian Government, supports small businesses, families and staff affected by the October 2022 floods,” Mrs Lynde said.
“Our trained mental health professionals offer direct wellbeing support, workplace workshops, informative webinars and tailored assistance.”
Partners in Wellbeing also provides referrals to free financial counselling and business advisory services.
“With a team experienced in small business challenges, we’re here to help you recover and thrive,” Mr Lynde said.
In total, 20 farmers attended the Nanneella information session, providing guidance on flood recovery efforts.
Partners in Wellbeing employs wellbeing coaches and financial counsellors supported by community-based organisations that work with people who have various needs.
The experienced staff use an evidence-based approach to provide support and use strategies known to improve wellbeing.
One of the other outfits on hand was ARC Justice, a human rights organisation providing free legal assistance and renter advocacy services to people in central and northern Victoria.
Community engagement officer Peter Coles spoke about helping restore people’s livelihoods after last year’s floods.
“Our response to the floods has been primarily to educate people about their rights and, where they seek individual legal advice, connecting them with a free service,” Mr Coles said.
“We help make that process as easy as possible, including helping people to get the paperwork together that a lawyer will need so that they understand the situation and the client can get all the help they need.”
ARC Justice has been in Rochester for the past 12 months, intending to aid those needing extra support while also dealing with tradespeople and insurance agencies.
“We encourage anyone with questions to drop in and see Prue or Peter between 10am and 2pm,” Mr Coles said.
“Many questions are about the insurance process or issues with contractors undertaking repairs.
“Insurance issues continue to be of great concern for many in the region.”
Partners in Wellbeing is funded by the Victorian Government and delivered by EACH, Neami National and the Australian Community Services Organisation across Victoria.
The Campaspe Shire Recovery Hub is open Monday to Friday, from 8.30am to 5pm. To contact the hub, call 1300 666 535 or email shire@campaspe.vic.gov.au