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In the wake of the January 2026 Longwood bushfires, recovery has meant more than rebuilding structures. It is about restoring access, safety and livelihoods for people on the ground.
That is where Operation Veteran Assist has been making a real difference.
Symal CEO Nabeel Sadaka (pictured bottom left) and Christian George (pictured bottom right), National Lead - Defence and Emergency Management, joined veterans and RSL leaders to hand over two trailers in support of recovery efforts.
The moment was a powerful reminder of just how much practical support matters. For one local community member, seeing the trailers arrive nearly brought them to tears. Not just because of the equipment itself, but because of what it represented. Help. Momentum. And the reassurance that they were not facing recovery alone.
The donated trailers are already being put to work by veterans and volunteers, supporting tasks such as:
Clearing trees and debris to restore access to properties
Repairing damaged fencing to secure land and protect livestock
Making sites safe so families and farmers can begin moving forward
"For communities affected by bushfire, these practical actions are critical first steps. They rely on having the right resources available quickly, and in the hands of people who know how to use them" said Nabeel Sadaka.
Operation Veteran Assist shared that the trailers will allow teams to move more efficiently between properties, respond more quickly to local needs and continue supporting recovery efforts as work progresses.
Veterans play a unique role in disaster response. Their experience, teamwork and calm under pressure mean they are often among the first to step up when communities need help most.
"This initiative reflects Symal’s ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and our belief that service does not stop when the uniform comes off. Supporting veteran-led organisations like the RSL and its sub-branches, alongside Operation Veteran Assist, helps strengthen community-led recovery and build resilience for future emergencies" said Christian George.
A big thank you to the team from Hawthorn RSL, including President Drew Maddison and Vice President Eamon Hale, and everyone involved in Operation Veteran Assist. Truly humbling work.
The Longwood bushfires are a reminder that recovery is not a single moment. It is a shared journey.
By backing veteran-led efforts with practical support, Symal is proud to play a small part in helping communities clear, repair and rebuild together.
As fire events continue across Victoria, our thoughts are with the local community and everyone involved in emergency response and recovery. Stay safe.
