Client: Northern Grampians Shire Council

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ResilientCo partnered with Northern Grampians Shire Council to strengthen community emergency readiness by supporting residents to better understand how to prepare, connect and self‑activate during emergencies. Council sought practical, community‑focused workshops that would build confidence, map local assets and challenges, and support the early development of township‑specific action plans in the communities of Great Western and Navarre.

 

In both towns, ResilientCo facilitated two‑hour Community Capacity Assessment Workshops that introduced residents to the Victorian emergency management context and the Community Emergency Hub concept. Participants explored their township’s strengths, challenges, needs, opportunities and risks through a modified SWOT activity, followed by asset mapping to identify critical infrastructure, vulnerable areas and available resources. These activities helped residents articulate what works well, where gaps exist and what would be required to safely self‑activate during an emergency.

 

The workshops surfaced consistent themes: communication gaps, isolation risks during floods or fires, limited local infrastructure, and the need for stronger social connection and information pathways. Residents also identified clear opportunities, including phone trees, community noticeboards, shared meeting points, and the potential for Community Emergency Hubs. ResilientCo supported participants to outline practical next steps and early actions that could strengthen preparedness and resilience.

 

The workshops increased community awareness, built confidence in local capability, and provided Council with a clear set of recommendations to guide future resilience‑building work. Residents in both townships expressed strong interest in continuing the journey toward community-led preparedness, and Council now has a practical foundation for supporting communities in activating hubs, developing personal emergency plans, and strengthening local networks.