Disaster recovery expert to share wellbeing insights in Skipton

Published on 02 June 2026

Community Conversation about Recovery with David Younger media release tile.jpg

Six months after the Streatham-Skipton bushfires, all community members are invited to share a meal, a cold drink and a relaxed conversation about the ongoing recovery.

Guest speaker at the free event, recovery expert David Younger, will share insights on life after fire and the journey beyond the first year.

“Come along to a community conversation about recovering from the fires,” Mr Younger said.

“It will be an opportunity to connect with people that you already know as well as to meet some new faces.

“We will talk about common community experiences during the first 12 months and how to navigate the path ahead whilst looking after yourself and each other.

“There will be time for questions and general conversation with each other.”

The event is jointly hosted by Corangamite Shire Council and Pyrenees Shire Council.

Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin said it was an opportunity to explore wellbeing, support others, and learn from the experiences of other communities across Australia.

“We would really love for everyone across the wider community to come along.

“The session is to give community members the skills to help support their neighbours through recovery, and look after themselves.

“It’s not about turning everyone into an amateur counsellor. It’s about recognising if someone we cross paths with seems a bit off and could use a supportive, non-judgemental conversation − Community supporting community.”

Pyrenees Shire Mayor Cr Damian Ferrari said: “It’s really important that our fire-affected residents get the proper support they need to recover after such a devastating event.

“This session will give these residents skills to make sure they are looking after their wellbeing, connecting with other people in their communities and to help them find exactly the right support they need in this ongoing recovery phase.”

Food and soft drink provided, with other drinks available at bar prices.

Bookings are essential – register via the QR code, call 5593 7100 or email skiptonfiresrequest@corangamite.vic.gov.au

When: Wednesday 17 June, 6.30 pm

Where: Skipton Recreation Reserve.

DAVID YOUNGER BIO

David Younger is a Melbourne-based clinical psychologist and national disaster consultant.

He has over 15 years’ experience partnering with Australian organisations and communities and has been an advisor after numerous events including bushfires, floods, droughts, cyclones, thunderstorm asthma, and the pandemic.

  • MPsych (Clinical) - Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology
  • BA (Hons) - Bachelor of Arts (Psychology Major) & Honours Degree in Psychology
  • Dip Health (Clin Hyp) - Diploma of Health, Counselling & Clinical Hypnosis
  • Panel Member - Psychosocial Reference Group - DFFH Victorian State Government (2015 - Current)
  • Honorary Fellow (Clinical) - Children & Disasters Advisory Committee - Melbourne University (2021 - Current)
  • Full Member Australian Psychological Society
  • Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency - Clinical Psychology Endorsement
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