All money and goods donated by individuals, businesses and community groups have now been distributed to people affected by the fire.
Around $65,000 was donated to support the recovery effort, with almost $20,000 provided in the immediate aftermath through cash payments and vouchers to meet urgent needs.
Donations were received through Moira FoodShare and Cobram Community House, alongside significant contributions from local service organisations.
The Cobram Lions Club donated $21,000, the Rotary Club of Numurkah contributed $10,000, and the Freemasons donated $17,500.
Soon after the fire, Cobram Community House, Moira FoodShare and the Cobram Lions Club formed a steering group to oversee the Community Fire Recovery Fund, ensuring donations were distributed fairly and transparently.
The remaining funds have now been allocated to individuals and families who applied for assistance, with allocations assessed by an independent panel based on the level of impact experienced.
Cobram Community House manager Christine Osborne said the steering group remained committed to managing community donations responsibly throughout the process.
“The collaborative approach taken by all organisations demonstrated the strength of local partnerships and a shared commitment to supporting the community’s recovery,” she said.
Cobram Lions Club member Ron Simon and Rotary Club of Numurkah member Chris Sutton thanked everyone who contributed to the fundraising effort.
“This is all local money, donated by the local community. It keeps on surprising me how Cobram people keep digging deep to help others,” Mr Simon said.
“It was very important for Lions to be involved in this — it’s what Lions are all about.”
The Rotary Club of Numurkah dedicated all proceeds from this year’s annual art show to the recovery fund.
“This is locals supporting locals — our members come from across the shire, so this is a great thing to be part of,” Ms Sutton said.
The Freemasons’ contribution was raised by lodges across the region and supplemented by the organisation’s Melbourne head office.
Cobram Freemasons Lodge Master Ray Donnan said supporting the recovery was an important part of the organisation’s role.
“There are people who lost everything and needed help, it’s why we join service groups,” he said.
Moira Shire Council chair administrator Graeme Emonson said the donations highlighted the strength of local organisations and the vital role they played in supporting the community.
“It speaks to the strength and generosity of our community to see such selfless support when so many people are struggling with cost-of-living difficulties,” he said.
Dr Emonson said support for those impacted by the fire would continue beyond the distribution of community donations.
“Moira Shire Council has adopted a two-year plan, developed by the Recovery Committee and fire victims, and with funding from the Victorian and Commonwealth governments, to support and work alongside those affected during their recovery.”
To read the Post Event Recovery Action Plan, visit: moira.vic.gov.au
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