Inverter generators can be used to recharge wheelchairs, mobile phones and laptops, and keep the centre's fridge freezer working with loss of power (the council's ordinary meeting, August 11 - Request for Financial Assistance, item 9).

In emergencies such as the recent superstorm, the related loss of power, communications and services made normal community functions difficult and more so for seniors and disabled members of our community.

Having had discussions with the state member for Port Stephens Kate Washington, shadow minister for emergency services Guy Zangari, the council's emergency co-ordination staff and a range of community members, we all agree that the greatest problem we faced was lack of communication and information transfer.

The total loss of electronic communications stunned the community, our 24-hour access is taken for granted.

The blackout on information about what was happening, where to go for help and when services might become available led to high rates of anxiety and additional unnecessary pressure on existing services such as RFS and SES.

It is very evident that we must develop a plan for communication hubs and emergency resources at our designated community centres.

Education of our community is critical if we are to raise our resilience in future storm and bushfire events.

Following serious bushfire emergencies in the Medowie and Raymond Terrace areas in 2013, our local Medowie RFS ran workshops on pre and post emergency preparation, these sessions were well attended.

Emergency education is critical and should be resourced and supported by state authorities to make our communities more sustainable and resilient in emergencies.

We are about to face one of the hottest, driest summers in a decade with large volumes of undergrowth following a wet winter - the next big community emergency could be only months away.

Councillor Geoff Dingle

Medowie