Get ‘appy and be prepared
Published on 05 March 2026
A new series of community workshops in the Central Goldfields Shire will support residents to be better prepared in the event of an emergency through improved digital awareness and practical skills training.
Funded by Emergency Recovery Victoria, the Don’t Worry, Get ’Appy workshops will focus on helping community members confidently download, set up and use trusted emergency information apps, including VicEmergency, which provides real-time updates on fires, floods, heat alerts and other hazards.
The first session will be held on Friday 13 March from 5 to 7.30pm at the Daisy Hill Community Centre and will be facilitated by Raelene Williams of Arc Ventures
Sessions will also be held in Dunolly on Monday 23 March, Bealiba on Thursday 26 March, and Carisbrook on Monday 20 April. Dates for Talbot and Maryborough will be confirmed shortly.
Participants will learn how to:
- Access emergency apps on their phone, tablet or laptop
- Set up personalised alerts and notifications
- Save important documents digitally
- Interpret warnings and incident updates
- Stay informed with reliable, up-to-date information during rapidly changing situations
Apps to be covered include:
- Vic Emergency
- Get Prepared (Red Cross)
- Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)
- My Mizu (locating free water on hot days)
- Emergency Plus
- ABC Listen
Central Goldfields Shire Mayor Cr Ben Green said knowing how to use an app such as VicEmergency might one day save your life.
“With so many emergency-related apps and websites, it can be confusing to know which ones to download and use. We also know that not everyone understands what apps are or how they work.
“Please be assured you are not alone. Many of us rely on the radio or TV, while others turn to tech-savvy children, grandchildren or friends for help.
“If you’d like to learn how to use these tools to ensure you can access relevant information and stay informed, keep an eye out for workshops coming to your community soon.”
Raelene Williams of Arc Ventures said the workshops are focused on helping people prepare for and respond to extreme events.
“We know we are likely to see more extreme events in the future, so the more people prepare now, the better equipped they will be to make informed decisions ahead of flood, fire and extreme heat.”
Bookings are essential as numbers are limited. For more information, including venues, dates and times, and to book a workshop place, call Raelene on 0412 507 418 or email raelene@arcventures.com.au.
Participants will be provided with critical information prior to the session to ensure they are ready to go on the day.
Bookings for the Dunolly session can also be made at the Dunolly & District Neighbourhood Centre. For Daisy Hill, a booking sheet will be available on Saturday 7 March at Community Day at the Daisy Hill Community Centre.