The Summer of 2019/2020 unleashed tragedy and destruction in a way Australia had scarcely seen before. The fires have cleared, however, fire affected communities are now facing a second cruel blow with a pandemic that some have never experienced.
Despite the bushfires not being the latest headlines, it shouldn’t be overlooked that nearly every state and territory has been impacted in some way by the bushfires. There are ways we can help our fire affected communities and enjoy some fresh country air. But, before driving out to lift the spirits of our fellow Australians, and with social distancing a way of life today due to the current climate, we encourage you to check safety and health notifications from your local state or federal authorities first. Here are just a few ways you can get involved.
Plan a road trip for good.
One of the greatest things you can do for a bushfire ravaged community is fill the fuel tank, jump in your car and go to an area with the intention of staying in local accommodation, participating in local paid tourism activities and enjoying the region’s local cafes, restaurants, foods and beverages. The more people that do a road trip, the more quickly fire-affected communities will find their feet. Start planning your visit now by checking out roadtripforgood.org.au.
Fill an empty esky.
Regional areas are open for business. However, many have missed a vital summer trading season and they desperately need you. Regional areas make unbelievably good produce – some of the best in the world, so here’s your opportunity to treat your taste buds. Go to emptyesky.com.au and make a pledge to take your empty esky to a location and shop and stock up until it’s full. It’s a small gesture – but if more of us do it you’ll be supporting affected growers, producers, artisans and businesses, as well as providing a well-needed morale boost.
Buy online from an affected community.
We get it, not everyone has time to head out to the bush. However, what’s overlooked is that you can actually purchase from many devastated areas right now if you’re prepared to search a little harder. Next time you’re considering a purchase online, prioritise purchases from regions that could use a little boost financially. Even if those businesses are not directly affected, their earnings will positively influence employment and other trade in a circular way where they live.
Adopt a shop.
A café in Albert Park, Victoria has ‘adopted’ a shop in fire-ravaged Mallacoota. Customers can purchase a coffee in this leafy inner-city spot, and pay forward a coffee for the Croajingolong Café in Mallacoota. It’s a fantastic idea. If you’re a business owner and would like to get involved with adopting a shop in a region, search the hashtag #adoptashop on your favourite social media for inspiration.
Source: 3aw & Fed Café Facebook.
Make a donation to WWF, Salvos, Red Cross or Vinnies on the First National Real Estate Beyond the Bricks Website.
As communities rebuild, wildlife habitats are restored and people and animals are nursed back to health, one thing is making a huge difference – the generosity of Australians. True to First National’s line ‘We put you first’, we’re putting those affected first and supporting the Beyond the Bricks campaign, backed by First National and 27 major real estate brands. Our organisation is donating via the Beyond the Bricks website, but you can too right here.
Like to know a little more about Beyond the Bricks? Feel free to read on here.
Disclaimer
The following advice is of a general nature only and intended as a broad guide. The advice should not be regarded as legal, financial or real estate advice. You should make your own inquiries and obtain independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any legal, financial or real estate decisions. Click here for full Terms of Use.