The Bushfire Relief Centre established at the Lucknow Hall has been overwhelmed by the generosity of East Gippslanders with donations of food, clothing and personal items.

With this in mind and the fact they have an over abundance of items, the centre put together grocery bundles for the families of Lakes Entrance Fire Brigade members.

“Members have been so busy on the ground that they have no time for grocery shopping,” CFA member, Bianca Bassett, said.

“They have so many donated items in Bairnsdale that we are trying to establish a shopfront here in Lakes Entrance, to make it easier for people to get what they need.

“It could even help people from Orbost and surrounds, saving them a trip to Bairnsdale.

“Hopefully it will be organised within the next few days.”

Bianca wanted to remind the community that they should use the facilities offered to them.

“We have all been affected in some way with these fires so don’t hesitate to accept support,” she said.

She also wanted to remind the community that local fire brigades have to do fundraising throughout the whole year to keep their brigades going.

“They are always open to financial donations, so why not go down to your local brigade and give them that support. It will be appreciated,” she said.

Kim Woodward, of the Lakes Entrance Fire Brigade, has been amazed at the generosity of the Lakes Entrance community.

“We have had offers for accommodation for emergency service personnel, meal packs, every type of thing including one business offering any welding we need done,” he said.

IMAGE: Kim Woodward and Norm Reynolds accepting the food parcels donated to Lakes Entrance Fire Brigade families. (PS)