Not much had been written about processes that assisted communities recovery from disaster, so I started to keep a diary of my experiences in the area of bushfire recovery. The entries were short lived as the demands on my time got greater. Below is diary extract, written on the 25 March 2009 that I would like to share.
"Fifty bushfire affected women attended the 'Wellbeing Evening'. This was the first event targeted at females only, once again it was organised in response to a community need and once again had a very short lead in time. Everyone in attendance was given a pamper pack full of goodies, quality feminine stuff - after all each and everyone of those women deserved a little spoiling.
The goodies were donated by nameless kind hearted business people and packed by an anonymous group of women. Cross stitching packs and pin cushions were also donated by a church group in Melbourne for distribution which were also well received. No-one asked for recognition - they gave products and their time because they truly cared and wanted to assist in some way.
The evening bought a welcome change of scenery and provided an opportunity for bushfire affected women to share their experiences, make social connections and confirm that they were not alone.
For me, I feel privileged to be given the opportunity to work in this area. Smiles on faces (if only for a short span of time) that were so troubled just hours earlier is what community recovery is all about."
Mandy Black
