Beyond the blaze: Why Otways locals fear they’ll be forgotten
“Impacts often peak months later, when initial support winds down and people are left managing loss and uncertainty.”
Zara Cuthbertson
February 05, 2026
Karlee Smith grew up on a 2,000-acre cattle and sheep farm near Gellibrand, managed by her father Daniel Smith.
She now lives in Colac, but much of her family remains on the bushland property, which was savaged during the recent Otways fires.
About 80 to 90 percent of the land burned; some stock, and most fencing, was lost. Neighbouring properties were hit hard, with friends and community members losing caravans, shipping containers, sentimental belongings and, in some cases, their homes.
The state government has already tipped $370 million into bushfire recovery in areas including the Otways.
Smith said that this support was important, but expressed concern about what happens when the spotlight shifts to the next extreme weather event and the area is left to fend for itself, and how locals who are unfamiliar with applying for funding receive help.
“The emotional impact has been huge,” she told the Brolga. “You don’t have to lose something physically to feel sad in this situation.”
What now? Smith, Stephanie Tribe and a handful of other locals have formed the Otway Bushfire Relief group, which fundraises to help rebuild houses and sheds and supports locals in navigating the available grants and support.
Tribe told the Brolga while funding was “essential” for rebuilding and mental health support, it hadn’t always translated into “timely or practical help” after previous bushfires.
“Impacts often peak months later, when initial support winds down and people are left managing loss and uncertainty,” she said.
Tribe said the best results occurred when funding was paired with “strong local coordination” that ensured the “different realities of households, farms and businesses” were taken into consideration.
What was announced? Support includes funding to expand the Clean-up Program for uninsured or underinsured homes, sheds and community facilities, and the Emergency Recovery Support Program to help residents navigate grants, insurance and health services.
Businesses and farmers can access financial advice, counselling and targeted support such as power outage payments and water tank cleaning rebates.
If you’ve been affected by bushfires and require help, you can access Emergency Recovery Victoria or reach out to the Otway Bushfire Relief group at otwaybushfirerelief.com.