Melbourne unites in event for bushfire victims [16.02.2009]
In an act of solidarity for the victims of Victoria’s bushfires, the Melbourne community will rally together on Friday 27 February, 2009, to show The City Cares.
The City Cares is a day of support that will enable city workers, visitors and residents to demonstrate their commitment to help those impacted by the bushfires. The day will include a range of events, such as the launch of the Helping Hands initiative.
Among other activities at Federation Square, supporters will be able to graphically record a pledge of time, skill and the resources that are needed for the ongoing work of rebuilding bushfire affected communities.
Committee for Melbourne CEO Ms Sally Capp said the day would be an opportunity to galvanise community feeling and support those communities devastated by the worst bushfires in this country’s history.
“As this event occurs during a work day, businesses are asked to devise practical ways they and their teams can participate in this event,” Ms Capp said.
“You, your friends and colleagues are invited to join together to show how deeply you feel and how much you want to help those people and regions affected by the bushfires,” she said.
Lord Mayor Robert Doyle says that the bushfires were an unprecedented national tragedy that has shocked the world.
“The City Cares Day on the 27th is a great way for us all to express our willingness to show our ongoing help and support,” the Lord Mayor said.
“Details of the day’s activities will be released shortly. In the meantime, enter Friday 27 February 2009 in your diaries and rally to support our friends in the bush,” Fed Square CEO Ms Kate Brennan said.
The City Cares Committee was formed through the support of the Committee for Melbourne, the City of Melbourne, the Australian Red Cross, Fed Square, the Herald & Weekly Times, ABC, George Patterson Y&R, Freehills and Northbridge Infrastructure.
All proceeds will go towards the Australian Red Cross 2009 Victorian Bushfire Fund, and volunteering will be co-ordinated by Volunteering Victoria.