A series of pilot workshops targeting women on Lower Eyre Peninsula to improve their bushfire safety skills and those of their families has just concluded. Fifty women attended the sessions held at Wangary and in Port Lincoln. Funded by Emergency Management Australia and the SA Country Fire Service, the project is now being evaluated for its effectiveness.

Response to the workshops has been very positive with most women feeling more empowered and confident with their bushfire strategy. Popular components of the workshops included the hands on practical exercises, assessing hazards around the home and vegetation, bushfire behaviour and emotional preparedness.

This program was funded through a one off Emergency Management Grant and may not be able to continue in its current form in the future.

A follow-up workshop for attendees has been planned for Sunday, June 1st from 2-5.00 pm to:

• Provide networking and support opportunities by bringing women from other groups to gather at the one venue
• Provide an opportunity to learn first hand from women who have already commenced preparing their homes by visiting their properties
• Provide more information on managing anxiety
• Provide opportunities to debrief
•  Provide further feedback.

TIME: 2 PM-5.00 PM
WHERE: STARTS AT NORTH SHIELDS CFS BRIGADE SHED
RSVP: TO ANN OR RACHAEL 8688 3400 BY MAY 30

Please bring a chair to sit on, wear sturdy walking shoes and possibly bring a jacket and/or a raincoat.

Afternoon tea supplied.

AUTHOR: Di Delaine, Senior Environmental Consultant, Rural Solutions SA
CONTACT: Ann Staunton or Rachael Dowson, PIRSA/ Rural Solutions SA Pt Lincoln, Telephone, 08 8688 3400