Phone: (03) 5482 1111
Christmas will come early this year for a group of about 45 Flowerdale residents when they receive a free weekend away in Echuca-Moama. Families who survived February's Black Saturday bushfires will be invited to Echuca-Moama on November 27 to 29 as guests of the Echuca-Moama and District Tourist Association.
The visit will be the result of talks between the association, Blaze Aid and the Department of Human Service.
It is being co-ordinated by the association and Moama on Murray Resort.
The resort's Judi Lawler said the department would select at least 10 families for the weekend.
``It appears there is a wide need to provide some holidays for families still suffering distress and grief from the bushfires,'' she said.
``We think there is an opportunity to do something for bushfire victims now that the dust has settled and their plight is starting to fade a bit from the public consciousness.
``This will give the victims a real holiday away from home and a better experience than ad-hoc one-offs.
``(We will) badge it as Echuca and Moama's Christmas gift to bushfire survivors.
``(It will be) a gift from Echuca-Moama communities to help spread a little cheer at the festive time of year and to say `We haven't forgotten you'.''
The plan includes bringing a busload of Flowerdale people to Echuca-Moama, providing them with accommodation, all meals, entry to attractions and transport around the area.
The association has appealed to members to ``all pitch in and help''.
``Your generosity is needed to make this a success,'' Mrs Lawler said.
``With your help we can give these families a great pre-Christmas, feel-good experience.''
For information or to offer help for people who have suffered the loss of their home and often a loved one, contact Mrs Lawler by Friday on 0417 109 488.
