Support Fire-Affected Communities in Australia
Australians have been coming up with their own unique ways to raise money and support the recovery and rebuilding efforts that lie ahead after the devastating wildfires that swept through the East Coast.
Hospitality businesses around Australia immediately began donating a percentage of their profits to various bushfire appeals across New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. The numerous call-outs required a centralized collection point, leading to the creation of Restaurants for Relief.
Food and travel journalist, co-organiser of Restaurants for Relief, and inspiration for the #EatCuriously hashtag, Sofia Levin, emphasizes this community spirit: “The one good thing that comes from disaster here is seeing the Aussie spirit shine. From planning road trips to support farmers to offering spare beds and free trades services, to people donating money – this is why we feel so proud to be Australian.”
A unique initiative to support local businesses affected by the bushfires has emerged, encouraging everyone to grab an Empty Esky (a portable cooler box) and embark on a road trip to fire-impacted communities.
This movement was started by three friends from Melbourne – Erin Boutros, Eleanor Baillieu, and Elise Mason – who sought to assist fire-affected communities throughout the country. Co-founder Eleanor explained: “We’re encouraging everyone, when it’s safe, to grab an empty esky, journey to an impacted area, and fill it with local products – wine, food, and produce.”
The Empty Esky Instagram account quickly amassed over 10,000 followers within just 24 hours, showcasing small businesses and their offerings to amplify accessibility, increase foot traffic, and stimulate online sales. Travelers to Australia can take a pledge to visit a fire-affected town with an Empty Esky and share their journeys on social media platforms.
Moreover, Australian creatives have taken to Twitter using the hashtag #AuthorsForFireys to auction signed items, illustrations, and unique experiences to help support the cause. Renowned author Liane Moriarty offered to name characters in her next book after winning bidders, while Nick Cave contributed a signed copy of his song and a suit, along with a substantial donation.
Consequently, many fundraising events have occurred throughout Australia, including sell-out shows at Byron Bay’s Beach Hotel, where celebrities like Chris Hemsworth auctioned unique opportunities for those unable to secure tickets. Interested in a tennis lesson with Pat Rafter or a songwriting session with ARIA Award winner Bernard Fanning? Visit Make it Rain for more information.
An eclectic mix of Australian musicians, including Icehouse, Hilltop Hoods, Jessica Mauboy, and Olivia Newton-John, alongside international stars like Queen and Alice Cooper, are set to perform at a massive benefit concert on 16 February at Sydney’s Olympic Park. The event will be hosted by Celeste Barber, whose social media fundraising efforts have already generated over $50 million.
Australian Tourism continues to provide updates on areas affected by the fires and implications for travelers. As Sofia Levin succinctly stated: “It’s important to find meaningful ways to contribute within your means. This can be as simple as dining at a restaurant involved in bushfire fundraising or, better yet, planning vacations to bushfire-affected communities. It’s our responsibility to ensure these economies and regions not only survive but rebuild through tourism.”
