With fears that the death toll may reach 300, the Victorian bushfire disaster has sparked the generosity of the nation including from the hospitality industry.

Across the industry operators, suppliers and manufacturers have responded strongly to the disaster to assist those affected, many of whom are from within the industry. Here's a snapshot of some of the ways the industry is already doing its bit to help:

The Australian Hotels Association

The Australian Hotels Association (AHA) has launched a “Red Bucket Appeal” for donations from hotels across the country.

The first donation to the appeal is $200,000 from the AHA itself. The appeal will see red buckets placed in hotels to enable owners, operators, staff and customers to chip in for victims of the disaster.

All funds raised will be donated to the Premier’s Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund.

David’s Restaurant and Oriental Tea House Melbourne hosts dinner on 17 February to raise funds

David Zhou, owner of the Chef Hat winning Davids restaurant along with Jane Mitchell from Mitchell Wines (Clare Valley S.A) are hoping to raise $3500 by putting on a special dinner to raise money for the Victorian Bush Fire Appeal.

For $39, guests can enjoy a two course meal and a glass of wine. All proceeds from the night will be donated to help the red cross in its relief efforts across the state. For bookings, call 03-29529 5199.

Entrée: Salt & Spicy Calamari

Main: “Emperors beef (Eye Fillet) wok tossed with onion in a ginger soy reduction” or “Steamed Rockling with Ginger & Chinese Mushroom”

Paired with a glass of 2008 Mitchell Watervale Riesling or 2004 Mitchell GSM

Tourism industry calls for immediate response and support

The industry has resolved to support communities get back on their feet in part by calling for a co-ordinated response by Government to assist affected tourism operators and destinations.

Tourism businesses will appreciate prompt emergency assistance from Government, whether it be counselling, clean-up assistance, infrastructure repair, marketing support or business transition assistance.

“We urge insurers to process payouts speedily and we are encouraged that a number of insurers have already set up hotlines to deal with enquiries,” said VTIC Chairman Jeremy Johnson.

Many offers of in-kind support have been received from the tourism industry, such as temporary accommodation and professional business services. If you are in a position to extend similar assistance to the people of the affected communities, please go to www.vic.gov.au for information on how you can help and contact details of the appropriate authorities coordinating the emergency relief effort.

Stonefish Tapas and Wine Bar, Sydney aims to raise funds with dinners on 16-17 February

Cronulla's two Stonefish restaurants are hoping for a wave of diners on Monday and Tuesday, February 16 and 17. All profits from meals and drinks served will go to the Victorian bushfire victims. Stonefish Restaurant on Cronulla Beach will be open for lunch and dinner, call 02-9544 3046.

Stonefish Tapas and Wine Bar in Cronulla's Mall is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, call 02-9544 3283.

CREAM TANGERINE’ Sydney to Host Bushfire Relief Fundraiser on 18 February

Cream Tangerine, the newest offering from RE: LOVE, the team behind Bondi’s THE RUM DIARIES bar restaurant, is hosting a fundraiser, on 18 February to benefit the victims of the recent Victorian bushfires. All proceeds will go to the Red Cross Bush Fire appeal.

Doors open at 7.00 pm, with drink tokens, canapés and a chance to win great prizes on offer to guests, who will be asked to provide a ‘folding’ donation at the door ($10 minimum).

Special guests, celebrities and VIPs are expected to join the line up. For more event information & RSVP, call 02-930 08471, or e-mail info@creamtangerine.com.au

The Melbourne Community Farmers' Markets (MCFM)

In a written note, Miranda Sharp from MCFM, talks about the survival and losses within the market community who have fought through the devastation.

“Matt & Aphrodite’s Veg of Kinglake, Nick & Wendy’s of (Stathewen veg and the Dr Java coffee cart) and Warialda Belted Galloway Beef of Clonbinane, have all survived and saved their houses, but have suffered major damage in the worst affected areas. “George Nicholas, VFMA treasurer and most dedicated association and market stalwart lost his olive grove, sheds and equipment at Kinglake. Kyneton Olive Oil and Barfold Olives have suffered major losses but no details as yet.” Geoff Love (Loves Pantry), Ron & Dianne Moore (Labertouche Free-range chooks) and Jindivick Tomatoes had a very close shave over the weekend but are back on full alert with a flare up in their area.”

Sharp lists more than 30 farmers markets who have notified that they are also fine. MCFM will be fundraising and marking the tragedy at all markets beginning this Saturday at Collingwood, VIC. There will be gaps where stallholders are unable to attend, either because they have lost their livelihood or are still out fighting fires.  

One of the fundraisers will be through raffles on the day, donations and goods are needed.

Foster’s Group Ltd

Foster’s will provide $750,000 in cash and in-kind relief to Victorian communities.

The support includes $375,000 to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal and a matching amount to provide direct support to affected employees and their families, appropriate product donations to emergency services and local community relief providers and match employee fundraising.

“The thoughts of all Foster’s employees are with the families, communities and businesses affected by the Victorian bushfires”, said Foster’s CEO, Ian Johnston.

Also see related article "Clubs launch appeal for Victorian bushfire victims" -

http://www.hospitalitymagazine.com.au/article/Clubs-launch-appeal-for-Victorian-bushfire-victims/437584.aspx