Information session to discuss role of evacuation centres in Bellingen Shire

AN information session featuring emergency services and support agencies will discuss the role of evacuation centres in the Bellingen Shire.

The session, to be held on Thursday 14 August at the Bellingen Neighbourhood Centre, will help residents understand how evacuation centres are established and operated in times of emergency.

Recent weather events, including Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025 and the May 2025 flood event, highlighted how quickly conditions can change and the critical need for timely coordination between agencies.

During such emergencies, decisions about the location, timing and operation of evacuation centres are made by the local Emergency Operations Controller (EOC) in collaboration with the combat agency in charge of the disaster response.

Which agency this is depends on the type of disaster – in case of fire, it will likely be the Rural Fire Service (RFS), and in flood the State Emergency Service (SES).

Council’s role in these instances is to support the response, by providing access to community buildings when requested by the EOC.

However, this can sometimes lead to confusion in the community, particularly when location expectations around evacuation sites do not match the official response.

Bellingen Shire Council General Manager Mark Griffioen encouraged people to attend the session.

“This is a great opportunity for you to gain insights from multiple first responder agencies such as NSW Police, SES, RFS and the Department of Communities and Justice,” said Mr Griffioen.

“You will have the opportunity in this information session to ensure you have enough information to develop your own Emergency Plan so you can be prepared for potential future fire and flood events.

“Emergency Services will inform attendants on how centres are set up and run, who makes the decisions in times of emergency, and why your input matters.”
The free session begins at 10am.