‘The Unbreakable Farmer’, mental health advocate Warren Davies, will share disaster recovery tips and strategies with the Skipton and Larralea communities over a steak dinner.
For the past decade the Kyabram dairy farmer has travelled across Australia, hearing the stories of people in communities recovering from floods, droughts, and bushfires.
At two upcoming events in Corangamite Shire he will share his personal experiences and what he has learnt about recovery and community resilience.
“There is a common belief that six months after a disaster things should be improving. That people should be getting back to normal. Yet for many people, the real work is only just beginning,” he said.
“One of the greatest lessons I have learnt from disaster recovery experts such as Anne Leadbeater and Dr Kate Brady is that recovery is not a straight line.
“Communities don’t move through recovery together. Individuals certainly don’t.
“Some people are rebuilding. Others are still waiting. Some insurance claims have been settled. Others remain unresolved.
“Some people have strong support networks around them. Others are becoming increasingly isolated.”
“Dr Kate Brady often speaks about recovery fatigue.
“Recovery fatigue is not failure. It is not weakness. It is not a sign that someone isn’t coping. It is a normal human response to prolonged stress.
Mr Davies said recovery is built through people, conversations, connection and community.
“It is built through people feeling seen, heard and understood.
“That is why we must continue showing up. We must continue listening.
“We must continue supporting communities long after the headlines disappear.”
Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin invited community members to come along.
“Whether you’re on a farm or in town, whether you’re directly or indirectly affected by the January fires, we’re all part of the same community.
“He will talk about the qualities the world sees − persistence, determination and leadership − as well as maintaining our inner needs like vulnerability, connection and self-care.
“Come along and get some practical tips and strategies to help our community move forward together.
“Dinner is on Council, supported by State Government funding.
“We want everyone to feel welcome so of course there are options for all dietary requirements.
