Emotions run high at inquiry into Victorian bushfires
A Victorian parliamentary inquiry into the summer bushfires that destroyed 54 homes and businesses in Harcourt heard emotional testimony from affected residents about the ongoing impacts and recovery challenges. Community members called for better disaster preparedness, investment in local infrastructure, and reforms to insurance practices. The final hearing will take place in Melbourne, with senior government and emergency officials set to appear.
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Victorian parliamentary inquiry into summer fires hears emotional pleas from Harcourt residentsBy Nate Woodall and Tyrone DaltonABC Central VictoriaTopic:Bushfires3h ago3 hours agoThu 30 Apr 2026 at 5:22amResidents are calling for the town of Harcourt to be prepared against future disasters. (ABC News: Danielle Bonica)In short:Central Victorians devastated by bushfires that razed 54 homes and businesses in the town of Harcourt earlier this year have told a parliamentary inquiry of the ongoing impacts.The inquiry is examining preparation and planning ahead of the 2026 fire season, the causes and circumstances of the fires, and emergency responses.What's next?The final hearing will be held in Melbourne tomorrow, where the heads of government departments and emergency agencies will…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at ABC News (Australia).