Sorry for the lack of updates recently. I’ve got some interesting things slated for blog posts in the next couple of weeks, including scans of an amazing article on the Sydney Marrickville Municipal Symphony Orchestra, which was active during the 1920s and 1930s (bet you don’t know about that one!), a March Australian tour listing (a list of recommended, interesting and exciting shows that aims at being diverse and comprehensive) and more. But now, I’m going to take some time out from what I usually post and talk about a few things which you should be helping out with.
Firstly, I’m sure everyone has been aware of the devasting news surrounding the Victorian bushfires. If you haven’t go here. Here are a list of appeals originally posted by SBS news:
Bushfire appeals
The main Bushfire Appeal is the Victorian Bushfires Appeal – which is being run by the Red Cross.
The Red Cross: Call 1800 811 700
Donate to the Bushfires Appeal Fund online or give a blood donation.
Cash donations can also be made at Bunnings Stores or through the National Australia Bank:
Accomodation hotline
A new hotline has been set up for people who want to offer accomodation to the survivors of the tragedy:
Bushfire Accommodation Donation Hotline – 1800 006 468
: call 136 622
NAB account:
BSB 082001
Account: 860046797
Other charities and banks have launched also bushfire appeals to help raise money for the victims of the disaster:
Salvation Army: Call 13 SALVOS (137258) or donate online
Anglicare hotline 132 622
WA Samaritans: 1800 198 313
1300 366 666 or online
Centrelink
Centrelink offers emergency payments for victims of the disaster – simply go online of call 180 2211.
Local councils
You can make offers of clothing and accomodation directly to shires in areas affected by the bushfires:
Alpine Shire – (03) 5755-0513
Baw Baw Shire – 1300 859 446
Cardinia Shire – 1300 787 634
City of Greater Bendigo – (03) 5447 2248
City of Horsham – (03) 5382 9794
Nillumbilk Shire – (03) 9438 5299
Yarra Ranges – 1300 368 333
Murrindini Shire - (03) 5772 0333
Mitchell Shire – (03) 5734 6232
Whittlesea Shire – (03) 9217 2170
Latest information – Victoria
If you are concerned about relatives and friends living in the bushfire areas in Victoria, telephone the emergency hotline 1800-240-667.
For a summary of current incidents, as well as updates and advice, go to the Victorian Country Fire Authority website.
Latest information – New South Wales
Meanwhile, for a list of current incidents and major fire updates in NSW, go to the NSW Rural Fire Service website.
The second thing that has popped up recently which you should help out is The Chauvel Cinema’s decision to replace Brett Garten as cinematheque curator. I posted a lengthier post on my personal blog, containing more information, but to sum up, Brett Garten has tirelessly dedicated himself to the artform of cinema, programming 300 shows at The Chauvel over a period of 3 years (the first two of which he volunteered). He has been responsible for programming a diverse range of films and has brought in special guests including directors, writers and musicians (including, amongst others, people like experimental extraordinares Toy Death). As a result, The Chauvel cinematheque will loose its heart and soul, Brett will loose his position and Sydney will loose of one the best film society’s going at the moment. Please send a letter of complaint to Palace Cinemas Head Office at 233 Whitehorse Rd, Balwyn VIC 3103
or email Palace Cinemas Head Office at palace@palacecinemas.com.au (also CC to council@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au).
Thank you for reading and for your support.
Filed under: Activism
