Today the City of Busselton officially launched its Emergency Recovery Plan. The Plan aims to provide invaluable information to local emergency agencies and community groups should an emergency or catastrophic event occur within the City of Busselton. The plan also provides a framework for the community to support affected individuals and families, businesses, environments and community groups in the recovery process.

Catastrophic events are defined as events that have a profound effect on the wider community and its resources.

The aim of the Emergency Recovery Plan is to restore as quickly as possible the quality of life in an affected community, so the community can continue to function effectively. The following potential key risks have been identified in the City of Busselton:

• Severe Storm
• Rural Fire
• Flooding
• Structual/urban fire
• Major Road transport accident or aircraft accident
• Tsunami

The Shire President Cr Wes Hartley said "The community can feel assured knowing the Shire has an Emergency Recovery Plan. Should a major disaster or catastrophe occur, the community will be able to come together. The Emergency Recovery Plan provides invaluable information which will allow our community members to offer help in an efficient and effective way towards the recovery process".

The Emergency Recovery Plan has taken 12 months to compile and is available on line at http://www.busselton.wa.gov.au/community/emergencies

Media enquiries can be directed to the City of Busselton's Public Relations Officer, Helena Webb on 97810446 or helena.webb@busselton.wa.gov.au