When I read the Wangaratta Chronicle page one headline last Friday (about arson of 700-year-old Indigenous significant tree at Northern Beaches) the emotions I felt were disbelief, anger, extreme sadness, shame and sorrow.
Why a person, or people, would deliberately set fire to such an ancient tree in a beautiful area leaves me bewildered.
The article mentioned that it was of cultural significant to the traditional owners of the community.
Not only that, it is significant to all of us - Indigenous and non-Indigenous.
Uncle Wally Cooper used to tell us this isn't just my culture, it's yours too. That's everyone!
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The deluded people responsible for this act of cultural, and environmental vandalism need to know this.
Try as you may, you can't erase our shared Indigenous culture and heritage.
Uncle Dozer Atkinson is right when he said this is an opportunity to get community to come together and learn respect through understanding the value in our shared cultural and environmental heritage.
But why should this have to be happening after such a mindless, selfish and ignorant act?
Shame on those responsible.
David Godkin, Wangaratta
Prepare for natural disasters now
Summer is almost upon us.
Across the country, we are beginning to notice the temperature getting warmer, the days getting longer and even the Christmas decorations starting to be put up at the shops.
However, summer also brings a higher risk to our weather season in Australia, with the summer season responsible for some of the most damaging natural disasters that we see throughout the year, like extreme heat waves, bushfires, floods, cyclones, drought and more.
The Salvation Army wants to remind Aussies to not be alarmed, but to be prepared of the potential risks that this season can bring.
A few simple, practical steps can get you, your family and your home ready for whatever this season will throw at you.
This could be preparing a ‘go bag’ with key personal documents, or having cash and three days of supplies spare in case a disaster affects ATM/EFTPOS machines - applying these tips will leave you in good stead as we enter this higher risk season.
And as you prepare for this summer, we also encourage you to look out for one another.
Check in with your friends and neighbours to see if they are prepared or need support heading into this disaster season.
Natural disasters are a major source of stress and trauma for many who experience it, but knowing that there are people checking in on you can make a huge difference.
The Salvos have a long history with natural disasters.
For over 130 years, we have been there for the long haul helping those impacted by natural disasters around the country.
Right now, our Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) teams are stationed at locations across the country, ready to spring into action if a disaster strikes and provide practical support (like meals and refreshments) and emotional support to anyone impacted.
The Salvos have developed a number of resources to help you prepare for a natural disaster this year.
To see these resources, or to find out more about the work of the SAES, visit salvationarmy.org.au/emergency-services
Bindy Lupis, Salvation Army Emergency Services
