This week marks the second anniversary of the 2013 Blue Mountains bushfires, which saw about 200 homes lost and damage to around 800 properties.
Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill reminded the community to be cognisant that the physical and emotional recovery continues and the anniversary can present a difficult time.
"Anniversaries can elicit mixed emotions. They are a powerful reminder of how hard it is and how long it takes for individuals and communities to recover from devastating natural disasters," Clr Greenhill said.
Council said there were many positive signs of community recovery, such as the rebuilding of homes, re-establishing household and community routine, and the regeneration of the bush.
"Of course, these are not the sum total of recovery but they are a good foundation," he said.
"Our shared efforts in disaster recovery so far have helped to deliver the necessary support to those who experienced first hand the single greatest challenge faced by the city and the council, and better prepare us for any future natural disaster."
Of the 203 homes [including Mt Victoria losses] destroyed during the bushfires, 121 new development applications have been received with 109 approved.
Council said 26 of the new applications were from new residents to the area. The development application value for the approved new dwellings was $49,068,399 with the average estimate of each new dwelling valued at $450,168.
Residents recently had the opportunity to hear psychologist and recovery expert, Dr Rob Gordon, speak at a public talk in Springwood about long term recovery after the 2013 bushfires.
Dr Gordon advised people to "do your own thing"as recovery from major events such as bushfires could be complex and take time.
"Don't feel obliged to have to acknowledge the anniversary unless you want to.
"What is important is that we, as the broader community, support our friends and family and acknowledge that recovery after such an event can take years.
"We will not all feel the same way about the bushfires at the same time," Dr Gordon told the assembled group. Residents and support workers are advised to take time out to reflect and replenish emotional and physical reserves.
Jessie Huard, Red Cross recovery coordinator said: "It's important to recognise that there are many people still recovering and that this is okay. Support services are still accessible to affected residents as well as support workers who provide ongoing support to neighbours, friends and family".
Lizz Reay, CEO of Nepean Blue Mountains PHN [Primary Health Network], said, "The Blue Mountains region has a number of highly qualified and experienced health professionals, including GPs that continue to help local fire-affected residents in their recovery journey. Visit your GP to discuss any health concerns you may have and to discuss further support services available."
There are a number of local Blue Mountains counselling and support services still available to assist people affected by the fires. Details: www.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/yourcouncil/communityrecovery/supportservices. Red Cross also has developed a number of resources on coping after emergencies www.redcross.org.au/emergency-resources.aspx
"Council acknowledges the recovery process is ongoing and will continue its support of bushfire affected residents every step of the way", said the mayor.
