- Published:
- Friday 9 July 2021
The Andrews Labor Government is supporting East Gippsland locals impacted by recent bushfires, drought and the pandemic to take a break and enjoy concerts with Paul Kelly - one of Australia’s most celebrated musicians.
The ARIA Hall of Fame singer and songwriter will perform two shows in the region in August as part of the Labor Government’s Recharge program, designed to provide time out to farmers, their families and other members of the community who have struggled with extreme weather conditions in recent years.
The Government established Recharge in 2019, backed by $750,000, in response to severe drought conditions across eastern Victoria, before expanding the program following the summer bushfires of late 2019 and early 2020.
Tickets are normally limited to participants identified through local Primary Healthcare Partnerships programs. However, in addition to eligible participants, members of the community will have a chance to attend the concert.
The events will be held in Buchan on Tuesday 17 August and Mallacoota on Wednesday 18 August.
The Recharge program includes on-farm music and comedy-based Shearing Shed Shows, designed to allow farmers to connect with their neighbours and surrounding community members in a supportive environment.
Ten Shearing Shed Shows have been scheduled for this year featuring other music artists including Ross Wilson and Killing Heidi. Each event will feature a range of support acts and food and beverages will be provided from local suppliers.
The Recharge program also includes weekends away for families to enjoy in regional Victoria or Melbourne – with the Government providing subsidies for accommodation, meals and activities.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas
“We know how challenging the past few years have been for the East Gippsland community. The Recharge Program is just one way that the community can take a well-deserved break, providing them much-needed respite from recent devastating events.”
Quotes attributable to East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Mendy Urie
“The last few years have been particularly tough for the East Gippsland community, with the prolonged drought followed by the Black Summer bushfires. For affected residents to get some relief is important for health and wellbeing and the Recharge program has been a great support for these families.”