Speaking at the Victoria Hill memorial site, Our Place director Reverend Tracey Wolsley, said 2012 was an important milestone as people continue on the path to recovery.

“We’re reminding people that we still remember, that they haven’t been forgotten and to assure them of our ongoing support,” she said.

“The third year is important in that they can start to get some balance back in their lives.

“At first it was just getting through all the things they need to do, and now they can begin to think about having recreational and social time to themselves once again.”

City of Greater Bendigo mayor Alec Sandner described the impact of Black Saturday on the local community as “nothing short of horrific”.

Eaglehawk ward Councillorr Peter Cox said three years on, the impact could still be felt and offered the council’s ongoing support.

“Only time can heal these things,” he said.

“As we acknowledge the day and the journey that people have made over the years, it is good to see people’s spirits are good.”

Bendigo Bushfire Action Group chairman Paul Epworth expressed his thanks to the local community.

“It’s great to see so many different people turn out,” he said. Mr Epworth said the group would be donating money raised from a comedy night to aid the recovery of flood-ravaged towns.

“The help we received has gotten us here to the three-year mark,” he said.

“And now we would like to extend that support to others.”