Nicole Harper, CCR Project Manager
Plan C started delivering its Community Carers and Responders (CCR) training to Pomona, Gympie, and Maryborough last year and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. A new program will start on the Cooloola Coast in May, and the community is encouraged to register now.
The CCR program trains community volunteers in important topics like self-care, how to handle disasters, how to build stronger communities, and emergency communications. As a result, participants know how to prepare their house for future disruptions, how to become more food and water resilient, how to plan for power outages, and more.
In this comprehensive program, attendees also receive first aid and psychological first aid training for free. Upon graduation, participants are mentored to implement a project that builds their own community’s resilience. It’s pretty comprehensive really!
The program is three days of training and commences in Rainbow Beach on Friday 23 May and finishes Sunday 25 May 2025. Participants are also offered a full day of both First Aid and Psychological First Aid as part of the program.
You too can join in, by applying here (but note that places are limited so apply soon!): www.planc.org.au/ccr-apply
Plan C has already trained over 300 graduates since the 2022 floods, including over 50 in the Gympie and Noosa regions.
In turn, CCRs have undertaken community projects such as risk reduction plans and community-building events, and have also played a key role in starting neighbourhood resilience groups as well as the set up of radio communication systems for use during emergencies.
The success of Plan C's CCR program to date shows the power of working together as a community.
‘Our Plan is the Community’ is the motto of not-for-profit organisation Plan C, whose mission is to build the resilience and regenerative capacities of Australian communities. As part of this mission they created the Community Carers & Responders (CCR) program in response to weather events and the impact on the community in 2022.
CCR is a network of community members trained and nurtured to build community resilience. Plan C is known for its unique approach to building communities.
“By strengthening community ties and preparing together for disasters, communities can become more resilient when facing future challenges.
“All of this can be done in a kind way, where we care for each other and for our own needs” says Plan C founder, Dr. Jean Renouf.
You too can learn disaster resilience skills, how to build your community, and much more by joining the CCR network! Places are however limited and Plan C welcomes interested community members to apply at www.planc.org.au/ccr-apply
The funding for this activity is provided by Country to Coast, QLD, with the support from the Australian Government through the PHN Program.
