The leafy hills and magnificent forests surrounding the township of Bridgetown near Perth in Western Australia, are a great attraction, yet also a great danger, when the threat of bushfires approaches this rural community.
Bridgetown Branch Welfare specialists Jim & Sheila Mullen, with strong support of the Branch Presidency and Branch Council, recently showcased the Church's Welfare and Emergency Services program by holding an "open house". This attracted the community into the Church's beautifully landscaped meetinghouse, open during the town's annual Garden Week.
| Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. | 1 / 2 |
"Because of these visits, community leaders are now more aware of the Church's proactive support in the eventuality of emergencies," reported Brother Mullen.
Presentations from the regional Director of Fire and Emergency Services Daniel Austin, and local Red Cross President Patricia Martin, were some of the highlights. Branch sisters demonstrated their skills with displays designed around provident living. The Church's encouragement of self-sufficiency and preparedness were featured, including flight kits and camping essentials in case of major emergencies. Relief Society President Sister Madeline White, as a Family History consultant, was also able to give visitors an understanding of the purpose of the Family History Centre facilities that are open to the public.
The Church's WA Emergency Response Coordinator, Brother Philip Baker and Sister Trish Baker were also guests.
"The Branch is to be commended, not only for showcasing the Church's pro-active family preparedness program, but for developing stronger relationships with Community leaders" commented Brother Baker.
Picture courtesy of Phil Baker and used with permission.