Bishop and Marino inspect bushfire damage in Margaret River
Monday, 28 November 2011
Deputy Leader of the Opposition Julie Bishop and Federal Member for Forrest Nola Marino today paid tribute to the work of emergency services and community organisations as they visited the Margaret River region hit by the recent devastating bushfire.Ms Bishop and Mrs Marino met with WA MLC Barry House, Shire President Ray Colyer and Deputy Shire President Ian Earl, who described the impact of the fires on the community.
Discussions were also held with police, fire crews and emergency services during the visit to some of the worst-affected areas.
Ms Bishop and Mrs Marino also visited the evacuation centre and spoke at length to residents, many of whom have lost their homes and in some cases their livelihoods.
“We strongly support the request by WA Premier Colin Barnett who has written to the Prime Minister seeking additional Federal funding support for primary producers and small businesses,” they said.
“It is important that people are supported during the recovery from this disaster.”
Ms Bishop and Mrs Marino urged Perth residents and people from across Australia to support the local community by visiting the region this summer.
The vast majority of tourism-related infrastructure was not affected and Margaret River tourism is open for business.
“Tourism is a vital part of the Margaret River economy, and there is no need for anyone planning a visit to cancel their trip as the beaches, wineries, restaurants, art galleries and other tourism places are ready to welcome visitors, " they said.
