AS Victoria recovers from the worst natural disaster in the country’s history, the State Government wants to thank emergency services personnel, community organisations and the public, and acknowledge their enormous effort.It was an unprecedented emergency and there was an unprecedented response from: Firefighters across Australia and from overseas; Victoria Police; The State Emergency Service; Emergency call takers; The army; The Red Cross; St John Ambulance; The Salvation Army; and Many other emergency workers and volunteers.They went above and beyond the normal call of duty during this intense period.These people are the very fabric of what it is to be a strong and safe society, and Victorians are proud of their great work. Their strength during the darkest of times helps give us all strength as we begin rebuilding our communities.We say thank you to them all.BOB CAMERON,Minister for Police and Emergency Services