On 7 February 2009 and subsequent days thereafter, Whittlesea acted as a focal point of for firefighting and relief efforts during the Black Saturday bushfires.

The township also acted as a focal point for relief efforts, attracting support from the larger Victorian and Australian communities.

[7] The town has a local volunteer (CFA) fire brigade as well as a limited hours Police station.

On 22 January 2009 Health Minister Daniel Andrews opened an ambulance station in Whittlesea.

Walker Reserve, corner Laurel and Forest Streets) will be used primarily for the game of cricket.

It currently plays in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association, with representation from seniors, juniors (boys/girls) and veterans (over 40s).

[18] Whittlesea Tennis Club on Laurel Street competes in the Northern district, Diamond Valley Leagues.

Laural street (now cricket club) was also the original site of the famous Rural Whittlesea Agricultural show.

Earlier in that year the brigade celebrated winning the C aggregate and the Victorian State Urban Championships held on the long weekend in March.