Victoria's catastrophic Black Saturday bushfires will be commemorated with a state service at the Royal Exhibition Building gardens a decade after the 2009 disaster.
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The fires claimed the lives of 173 people, injured a further 400 and destroyed more than 2000 homes.
"We need to honour those who died, those who lost homes and those brave men and women who fought to save lives and homes," Emergency Services Minister Lisa Neville said.
"Holding this commemoration on this day allows for individuals to have time for themselves or attend other community events during the week."
The service will be held on Monday February 4, three days before the anniversary date of Thursday February 7, to allow communities to spend the week reflecting in their own way.
Including the state service, the Victorian government's $4.4 million anniversary support package also includes a community arts grants program, school support and counselling.
Victorian Governor Linda Dessau will tour affected areas in her role as patron for the commemorations, while an advisory panel, chaired by former premier John Brumby, has advised the government on planning activities.
The City of Greater Bendigo, which was hit by two fires at Redesdale and Maiden Gully on Black Saturday, will hold a community commemorative event on Saturday, February 9.
"(The) event will provide an opportunity to reflect on the impact of the fires on our local community, as well as the changes and long-term recovery that has occurred since," council spokeswoman Frances Ford said on Tuesday.
"It will be a lovely morning of music, memories and morning tea."
The council liaised with various stakeholders to design a "dignified, respectful and moving opportunity for the community to gather and reflect".
Australian Associated Press
