One of our most affected churches is New Horizons Church at Whittlesea, where Pastor Shane Lepp oversees both Whittlesea and a satellite church in Kinglake.

Tragically, one family from New Horizons, a young father and mother and their three children all under 10, have died in the blaze. We have heard that other congregation members have lost their homes.

Pastor Mark Bateman, Director of Chaplaincy Australia, has deployed 30 chaplains across the state with another 30 on standby in NSW ready for dispatch. The primary need is for finance, particularly to provide long term support which will be needed to assist people in restoring their homes and lives.

It goes without saying that immense help and resources will be required for rebuilding houses and structures, refurbishing homes, replacement of vehicles and essential items. The ACC Victorian Executive has formed a Bushfire Appeal Taskforce to provide high level co-ordination of response and recovery initiatives. Funds will be disbursed through ACC National Agencies, Chaplaincy Australia and local churches with close relationship to affected communities.

TO MAKE A DONATION: Direct Deposit: Westpac BSB: 034654 Account: 110431. Please specify ‘Bushfire Appeal’ on your deposit and email our office: to allocate your donation and to leave your contact details. Every donation above $2 is tax-deductible.