Border Trust launches Mt Lawson/Walwa Bushfire Recovery Appeal
Border Trust has launched the Mt Lawson/Walwa Bushfire Recovery Appeal following recent bushfires that have impacted Walwa and surrounding communities, causing damage, loss of livelihoods, disruption and uncertainty for local residents.
The appeal has been established to raise funds that can be quickly distributed to local not-for-profit organisations and community groups supporting recovery efforts on the ground.
Sue Gold, Executive Officer of Border Trust, said the appeal is focused on responding to both immediate and emerging community needs.
‘In the aftermath of bushfires, communities need support that is timely, flexible and locally informed,’ Ms Gold said. ‘This appeal enables funds to be mobilised quickly and directed to trusted local organisations that are working alongside people as they recover and rebuild.’
Towong Shire Council has welcomed the establishment of the appeal, recognising Border Trust’s long-standing relationship with the Upper Murray and its proven experience in disaster recovery.
Councillor Peter Tolsher, Towong Shire Council Mayor, said the appeal provides a trusted and effective pathway for community support.
‘Towong Shire Council welcomes the establishment of the Border Trust Mt Lawson/Walwa Bushfire Recovery Appeal,’ Cr Tolsher said. ‘Border Trust has a strong history of working alongside our communities, particularly following the 2019–2020 bushfires, and brings the experience, governance and local understanding needed to ensure support reaches where it is most needed. Council recognises Border Trust as a credible and trusted partner in disaster recovery.’
Funds raised through the appeal will support locally led projects and initiatives that help people return to their homes and communities, rebuild essential services and infrastructure, and strengthen community wellbeing and connection.
Border Trust is the Community Foundation for the Border region and has extensive experience managing disaster recovery funds. Following the 2019–2020 bushfires, Border Trust worked closely with community leaders and local organisations to distribute more than $2.85 million across Towong Shire through transparent, well-governed grant programs.
‘That experience has reinforced the importance of listening to communities and supporting solutions that are designed and delivered locally,’ Ms Gold said. ‘Mt Lawson/Walwa Bushfire Recovery Appeal builds on that approach, ensuring generosity can be translated into meaningful, on-the-ground support.’
Local community leaders have also expressed strong support for Border Trust’s leadership of the appeal.
Sharyn Nankervis, a long-time Upper Murray community leader involved in community recovery, CFA coordination and management of the Towong Soldiers Memorial Hall, said Border Trust’s local knowledge is critical.
‘Border Trust understands this community because they’ve walked alongside us before,’ Ms Nankervis said. ‘After the Black Summer fires, they listened, stayed engaged and made sure funding flowed to the grassroots organisations doing the work on the ground. That local knowledge and trust matters enormously right now.’
Donations to the appeal are tax-deductible and can be made via Border Trust’s secure online donation platform or by direct bank transfer.
For more information or to donate, visit: https://www.bordertrust.org.au/mt-lawson-walwa-bushfire-appeal/
MEDIA ENQUIRIES & INTERVIEWS
Sue Gold
Executive Officer, Border Trust
0485 858 183
Towong Shire Council
Communications
0484 952 090
ABOUT BORDER TRUST:
Border Trust is the Community Foundation for the Albury Wodonga region. We connect people who care to local causes that matter — helping individuals, families and businesses make a lasting difference across Albury, Wodonga, Federation, Indigo, Towong and Greater Hume.
Learn more at www.bordertrust.org.au