Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, has released the following statement on behalf of Council.
"Council strongly refutes the claims made by Cassie Zervos in a recent Channel 7 podcast and video shared online suggesting that police were denied service at cafés and unwelcome within our townships during the search operations referenced.
"These assertions are not only inaccurate - they are deeply unfair to our local businesses and community.
"Throughout that period, our townships demonstrated exceptional cooperation, resilience, and support for Victoria Police. A significant number of cafés and hospitality venues and community members went out of their way to support officers - offering free coffees, preparing food, and delivering it directly to police stationed in the centre of Bright.
"These were not isolated acts; they reflected the broader sentiment of appreciation and respect held by our community.
"Local businesses complied fully with police requests, including closing their doors when asked. Our residents followed directives, remained in their homes during critical periods, and endured the economic and social consequences without complaint.
"Council also worked closely and collaboratively with Victoria Police throughout this period, supporting their operations and ensuring clear communication with the community.
"Tourism declined sharply, and businesses suffered real financial hardship - all in support of the operation and the safety of the broader community.
"To characterise this same community as unwelcoming or hostile is not only incorrect, it is damaging.
"Our region has been through an incredibly difficult time. Small businesses in our township rely heavily on tourism to survive, and their reputation matters. Broadcasting misleading claims to a large audience undermines the hard work, goodwill, and reputation of people who acted with integrity and community spirit under pressure.
"This type of reporting falls short of responsible journalism. It amplifies unverified accounts while overlooking the overwhelming evidence of community support and cooperation.
"We are disappointed that such claims were aired without appropriate fact-checking or engagement with local stakeholders.
"Our community deserved better then, and it deserves better now."