“(It) provides a trusted, community-led way for support to flow back into the region as people begin the long road to recovery following the bushfires,” she said.
“This has been deeply personal for a lot of people, myself included.
“I’ve seen first-hand what these fires have taken, and I know how much it matters that recovery support is handled with care, fairness and integrity.”
The Strathbogie Disaster Relief Fund has been created by the community, for the community, to support individuals, families and businesses impacted by the bushfires, providing both immediate assistance and longer-term recovery support as rebuilding continues.
Ms Cleeland said the strength of the fund lay in its local focus and governance.
“This fund is grounded in the community and guided by people who understand the realities on the ground,” she said.
“It ensures support is directed where it is genuinely needed and managed in a way that people can trust.”
The fund is administered through the Australian Communities Foundation, providing strong governance, transparency and financial oversight, and is guided by a local Community Advisory Committee made up of people with lived experience of the bushfires and deep knowledge of the Strathbogie region.
Ms Cleeland said the fund existed to support recovery in a way that is thoughtful and long-term.
“Recovery isn’t just about the days immediately after a fire,” she said.
“It’s about supporting people months down the track, when the shock has worn off and the hard work of rebuilding really begins.”
Ms Cleeland said information about the fund, including how to access the donation portal, was available through her website, alongside broader bushfire recovery information for the region.
“This fund is there for the community,” she said.
“For those who are looking for a way to support recovery, the information is available in one place.
“There is a long road ahead.
“But this fund is an important step in making sure our community has the support it needs to move forward, together.”
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