BATLOW RECOVERY FORUM
Batlow community members are invited to attend a community forum hosted by Dr Joe McGirr MP and Ms Kristy McBain MP on Wednesday 19 August.
The Batlow Recovery Forum will allow the community to hear from State and Federal Government agencies, while providing the opportunity for the community to give feedback on their vision for Batlow.
Dr McGirr looks forward to the opportunity to bring the community together to have important conversations about the future of Batlow.
“We want to understand how all levels of government can better support the community on the road to recovery,” said Dr McGirr.
“This event is the first step in starting conversations so that recovery is led by the community for the community.”
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain says that it is important to hear from the community about the recovery of the region.
“Batlow is doing it tough like many communities across the region, but there is not a one size fits all solution. This is an important step to ensuring that the recovery is led by the community,” said Mrs McBain.
The forum will only go ahead providing COVID-19 restrictions on events are not tightened.
Dr McGirr says the event will respond to changes to the COVID-19 situation.
“Currently I believe it ok to run this event with a COVID Safe Plan in place, however, we will constantly review the COVID-19 situation and if the community feels the risk is too great we will postpone the event,” said Dr McGirr.
“There is currently no end date for COVID-19 and, with this mind, I think it’s important we don’t postpone all community consultation indefinitely as then we run the risk of excluding communities from government decision making processes.”
“The date of this event can be flexible, if needed, and we will aim to collect feedback from people who can’t attend, through an online survey.”
Mrs McBain said “If you have flu like symptoms or have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, please stay home and provide feedback through the online survey or contacting our offices.”
“It is important to hear from the community, but we must ensure everyone’s safety.”
Speakers at the event will include Major General Andrew Hocking from National Bushfire Recovery Agency and representatives of Resilience NSW as well as the Department of Regional NSW who will share important information about the recovery efforts and future opportunities.
Community members are asked to register to attend the event by clicking here or calling Dr McGirr’s office on 6921 1622.
Event numbers are limited and individuals will be allocated to tables to ensure the event complies social distancing and the Covid-19 safety plan.
Individuals who can’t attend the forum are invited to provide feedback through an online survey here or here, until Tuesday 18 August 2020.
The forum will be held on Wednesday 19 August, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, at the Batlow Literary Institute. MEDIA: 6921 1622