Community event to commemorate Peregian bushfires anniversary

One year on from the Peregian bushfires, residents are invited to a community event on Saturday 12 September at Peregian Beach Community House to come together and reflect on the past 12 months.

Residents can enjoy a free morning tea while viewing a special photographic exhibition ‘State of Emergency’ by Sunshine Beach photographer Barbora Tomikova, documenting the 2019 bushfires.

Ms Tamikova captured the transformation of the Peregian Beach landscape in a fascinating series of images taken over the past 12 months and said she was amazed at the speed of regeneration.

“Within a few days of the fires, the vegetation started to spring to life” Ms Tamikova said.

“We understand the damage fire can cause and the fear it carries, but this project has allowed me to witness how nature in Australia thrives during its natural cycle,” Ms Tamikova said.

Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart will attend the morning event from 9-11am along with Deputy Mayor and Peregian Beach resident Frank Wilkie and Environmental Coordinator of Peregian Beach Community Association Rochelle Gooch.

There will also be music and information on disaster preparedness.

Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart said the event was about offering an opportunity for the community to come together and reflect on the impact of the bushfires and the resilience of the community.

“It will be a lovely morning of music, memories and morning tea,” Cr Stewart said.

“It’s also an opportunity for residents to renew their focus on their bushfire preparedness for the upcoming fire, storm and cyclone season.

“Due to COVID-19, numbers are restricted so registration is essential for all attendees via peregian1yr.eventbrite.com.au. This way we can make sure the event is run in line with QLD Health COVID regulations and numbers, and as always maintain social distancing at events and stay at home if you are unwell or have any cold or flu like symptoms,” Cr Stewart said.

This event is part of a State and Federal funding initiative, in conjunction with Noosa Council, Sunshine Coast Council and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES).

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