Greater Shepparton residents encouraged to prepare for the first 72 hours of an emergency

Posted on Wednesday 19th of November, 2025,

Greater Shepparton City Council is urging residents to take steps now to prepare for emergencies, by making a plan for the first 72 hours, when essential services may be disrupted and help may not be immediately available.

In Summary

  • Council urges residents to prepare for emergencies by planning for the first 72 hours, when power, water and communications may be disrupted and emergency help may not be immediately available.
  • The First 72 Hours campaign includes a downloadable emergency plan template and brochure, available in multiple languages via Council’s website and in hard copy from Customer Service.
  • Resources guide residents to plan ahead, including who to consider in an emergency, evacuation options, and how to stay informed through trusted sources.
  • Mayor, Cr Shane Sali encourages all households to take small, practical steps now to stay safe, supported, and resilient during emergency situations.

Emergencies such as floods, storms, heatwaves and bushfires can arrive quickly and without warning. In these situations, households may experience power outages, loss of water or gas, limited access to food, or difficulties communicating with loved ones.

Council’s First 72 Hours campaign encourages the community to think ahead, develop an emergency plan, and prepare a kit of essentials to stay safe and supported during this critical time.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said being prepared can make a significant difference during an emergency.

“We know that in the first three days after a major event, emergency services may not always be able to reach everyone straight away,” he said.

“That’s why it’s so important for individuals and families to plan ahead. By having a kit ready and knowing what you’ll do if power, water or communication is cut, you’ll be in a much stronger position to cope.”

The First 72 Hours resources include a simple brochure and a household emergency plan template, available on Council’s website. These tools are available in multiple languages and guide residents through practical steps such as:

  • Identifying who to consider in an emergency (children, elderly relatives, neighbours, pets, visitors).
  • Deciding where to go and how to get there if evacuation is required.
  • Keeping important documents, medications and supplies safe and accessible.
  • Staying informed through trusted sources such as the VicEmergency App and emergency radio broadcasts.

Council’s Acting Director Healthy Communities and Liveability, Karen Liversidge, said that while emergencies are unpredictable, being organised is within everyone’s reach.

“Preparing now doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about small, practical actions that give you confidence and peace of mind when the unexpected happens,” she said.

“We encourage everyone in Greater Shepparton to download the plan, sit down with your family, and take the time to be prepared.”

To download the 72 Hours Emergency Plan template, or to access resources in multiple languages, visit shepp.city/72hours. Hard copies are also available from Council’s Customer Service Centre.

For more information call Council on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au.

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