Message from BMA’s Chair, Jacqueline Brody-Hans :
How does one begin to put into words the heavy hearts we are all carrying after the devastation that has impacted the Harcourt community this past weekend?
I have deep and longstanding connections to Harcourt, having run a B&B in the heart of town for ten years and having played a role in establishing the Harcourt Progress Association. Through this, I’ve come to know many local residents, community groups, and businesses, and I am overwhelmed with sadness at the destruction of so many homes and such vital community infrastructure.
My own business, Shedshaker Brewing, was not spared. All of our beer stock stored at the Harcourt Cool Store has been destroyed, along with millions of dollars’ worth of local produce, wines and spirits. The impact on local producers is immense, with Loveshack Brewery, Bress Wines, Maidenii Vermouth, Blackjack Wines, Bertrand Bespoke, Sutton Grange Wines, Gil Graves, Still Moon and many, many more all losing significant volume of stock. The amount of fresh fruit and vegetable produce has yet to be quantified.
The scale of loss is heartbreaking, and my thoughts are with everyone in the Harcourt community as they begin the long road to recovery. BMA is committed to working with Harcourt businesses and are advocating government to rebuild the Cool Stores and support a BUY LOCAL campaign. Please let us know any assistance you need and we will try to support you and connect you with the appropriate services.
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Click below for a new website resource from the Victorian Government for those affected by the 2026 fires.
It includes links to getting financial and mental health assistance amongst other key supports.
https://www.vic.gov.au/january-2026-victorian-bushfires
Please note, the previous link to Business Victoria’s resources sent with our e-news on Tuesday 12th January has been removed and replaced with this new resource.