Joint Media Release | Local health services unite to support Upper Murray communities during ongoing bushfires
Tuesday, 10 February 2026 / Albury Wodonga Health
As bushfires continue to impact communities across the Upper Murray, local health and wellbeing services have come together to provide a coordinated mental health and wellbeing response, ensuring people know where to turn for support during an ongoing and uncertain period.
While fires remain active and the formal recovery processes are yet to commence, services are responding early to the emotional and practical pressures already being felt across the region. This includes stress and fatigue linked to defending properties, supporting neighbours, managing smoke and power outages, caring for livestock, displacement, and the re triggering of past bushfire experiences.
As part of this response and as communities move closer to recovery, a series of community BBQs and local gatherings organised by Corryong Health will be held across the Upper Murray in the coming weeks. These events are designed to bring people together in familiar, low pressure settings, with local mental health and wellbeing professionals available on site for anyone who may want to talk, ask questions or be connected with the right support.
The coordinated effort brings together Albury Wodonga Health, Gateway Health, Corryong Health, Tallangatta Health Service, and a network of regional mental health and wellbeing partners, working collaboratively to reduce confusion and make support easier to access, without people having to repeat their story or navigate multiple systems.
Dannielle McLeish, Area Director, Mental Health, Albury Wodonga Health
“Stress and uncertainty does not wait for a recovery phase to be declared. You don’t have to wait until things reach a breaking point. A single conversation can help people feel steadier and supported.”
Alana Pund, General Manager Mental Health and Wellbeing, Gateway Health
“These gatherings are about connection first. Knowing local professionals are available, without pressure or expectations, can make it easier for people to reach out when they’re ready.”
Cynthia Robins, CEO Corryong Health
“Corryong, like all of the Upper Murray, is a close-knit community where people support one another during a crisis. It is important however, that people feel connected beyond the crisis and remember that support is available even when you feel alone and helpless. Our local teams are a part of the community and we’re here to support people through any uncertainty, now and as recovery unfolds.”
Support is available now and as communities move closer to recovery for people across the Upper Murray, whatever their situation and whatever they’re carrying.
Community BBQs and support resources
Information about upcoming community BBQs, mental health supports and available resources can be accessed via the links below.
Not sure where to start?
Two free phone services can help you take the first step and connect with the right support during business hours:
- Partners in Wellbeing – 1300 375 330
- Medicare Mental Health Phone Service – 1800 595 212
The message for Walwa and the wider Upper Murray is clear: We’ve got your back. You’re not on your own, and support is here when you need it.
Crisis support
If you or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, call
000.
24/7 crisis support is available, including:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
- Albury Wodonga Health Mental Health Triage – 1300 104 211
Media enquiries
Media are encouraged to contact the listed media contacts to discuss coverage opportunities related to the mental health and wellbeing response, including arranging interviews with local mental health professionals involved in the coordinated response.
Spokespeople are available for interview on request.
Information may be updated as the bushfire response continues.