RECOGNISING OUR HEROES - 16 pages of heartfelt messages honouring the brave men & women who came when we called
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RECOGNISING OUR HEROES
Than k you
Picture: Dean Lewins/AAP
16 pages of heartfelt messages
honouring the brave men & women who came when we called
02
HONOURING OUR HEROES
When a simple
“I saw a young man, face blackened,
and asked to shake his hand”
I was in Mallacoota with my family during the peak
of the fires and witnessed first-hand the mighty
work of the CFA. The trucks never stopped coming
to the pier to refill day and night to return and fight
the huge fires blazing all around us. We were
frightened and felt so helpless. We managed to
talk to a few of the fireys from a distance and had
our grandchildren wave and clap as others drove
thank you does not
back out to continue the fight.
I passed one young man walking down the
street one afternoon, face and hands blackened
from dirt and ash, and asked to shake his hand to
say thank you. He asked if I was a local and he told
me I needed to thank all the fireys who came to
help from outside, because Mallacoota wouldn’t
have survived without them. I saw trucks from
Eltham, Kangaroo Ground, Scoresby, Lara and
places I’m not even familiar with. How grateful I am
to all those men and women firefighters — they
seem to be enough
saved the township of Mallacoota and our lives.
They are all heroes — dedicated, selfless,
courageous heroes — and just saying ‘thank you’
doesn’t seem enough. I hold them with such high
esteem and God bless them all.
Anne Lehman, Healesville
“Toughness and resilience of bush
people is there for all to see”
I remember as a kid my dad, who
was a long-haul truckie, spent
a lot of his life driving
through rural Australia and
would often tell us about
his time in the bush, the
THEY’VE been nicknamed the Orange and Yellow Army — the thousands stunning landscape of our
country and the great people
of firefighters who risked everything to save lives and property in the and friends he made along the
face of the fiercest bushfires this country has ever seen. It’s almost way. It would have broken his heart as it did
Australia and the world, to see the devastation of
impossible to adequately put into words the gratitude the community these fires on the people and animals caught up in
the disaster. Dad would often regale us with stories
feels for these real-life heroes, but we wanted to try. These are of toughness and resilience of the mates he made
throughout his trips. Those traits have been there
messages from our readers and some of the biggest celebrity names. for all to see as communities fought and now rally
to recover and pay tribute to the heroic feats of our
incredible firefighters who will never be forgotten.
Sonia Kruger, TV presenter
BUXTON Exhausted firefighter David Moore takes a rest before the taking on the firestorm that threatens homes near the NSW town of Buxton on December 20. Picture: Adam Yip.
03
HONOURING OUR HEROES
“I could see the red glow in the you put in like us former RFS members who did in
the past. And not forgetting all the other
Blue Mountains late at night” emergency services who were on the frontline of
Many thanks to the fireys who battled raging fires these bushfires, we are all proud of your great work.
in the Blue Mountains, saving houses, small honey Darryl Lockwood, Hamlyn Terrace
businesses and the township of Lithgow. We were
on holidays in Dural, north of Sydney and I could
see the red glow in the Blue Mountains late at night
“We feel the pain of a lot of our
and picked up black gum tree leaves from the lawn, farming friends caught up in this”
blown daily across a huge distance. Local people Thanks to the fireys who have helped a lot of my
would be ‘lost’ without the selfless volunteer fireys farmer friends who supply us in the restaurants.
fighting for total strangers. Not only do we buy from them but spend time
Pauline Nicholson, Salisbury Plains together as friends, so their pain is our pain. Let’s
hope that this is the wake-up call. Also, that city
“Great community spirit lives on in folk now realise is not just a rural problem you see
on the TV, it’s on our doorstep.
our small villages and towns” Love to the firemen and women.
Thank you to Running Stream/Ilford Rural firemen Colin Fassnidge, chef and MKR judge
and women and community.
BIG thank you to Gary, Mark and Brett Lilley,
Matt Maude, Darryl Chadwick, Colin Clapham, Greg
“This has been a heartbreaking
Reeves and Hudson Sim. Also Felicity Creswell for few months for this country”
taking control of the kitchen, along with her team, What has happen to this beautiful country over the
cooking breakfast and dinner for up to 120 past few months with the loss of life, property, our
firefighters and packing lunches and snack packs forests and wildlife has been heartbreaking. I wish
for them all. to send my gratitude to the brave volunteers who
Great community spirit lives on. have been at the frontline fighting these fires and
Wendy Chadwick all the people supporting them across our country,
and also to all the charity organisations that have
“It’s a shame we may never know and are still rallying their services.
Australia is a wonderful country and the
the names of individual heroes” volunteering spirit is to be admired.
Saying the words ‘thank you’ to the brave Carla Zampatti, fashion designer
firefighters seems so inadequate. How can words
ever truly express how we feel about these selfless
people who give so much to the community, in
“You’ve been saying to us all:
many cases not even their own. Saving lives, ‘We’ve got you, you’re safe’”
homes, property, and both stock and wildlife in the It is a known saying, when trouble comes, heroes
face of terrifying firefronts and for no expectation rise. Thank you to all those heroes assisting people
of payment requires a special kind of person. We and animals in dire circumstances. You have shown
know the names of those in charge of operations DIAMOND Bronte Mahaffrey, 12, showed her appreciation with a sign to firefighters selflessness beyond what could ever be expected
but we will never know the names of so many who BEACH who saved her neighbourhood. She also helped her mum make sandwiches or achieved, and set a high standard for humanity,
have worked long shifts, going home exhausted. for those on the frontline, as the family accommodated fireys in their home. a moral compass for us all. A special mention to the
Continuing on when they lose their own Greenwell Point RFS and (Captain) Sam out there
members to awful accidents must be excruciating. every day in the biggest fires, saying to us: “We’ve
Thanks also to the employers who made it
possible for their workers to participate in such a
“A ginormous thank you — we will efforts. To the CFS volunteers on the Cudlee Creek,
Paracombe, Gumeracha, Birdwood and Mt Torrens
got you, you’re safe”.
How do you ever repay for this type of help.
worthy cause. Thank you, one and all. never forget what you have done” trucks, we are forever indebted. Beyond the There are no words exceptional enough in gratitude
Marg Swindells, Castle Hill This brutal summer nearly broke us. The only relief fireground, the commitment of the team that for the help that was given. This nation has been
in sight — for our lives, properties, and souls was co-ordinated bushfire recovery efforts was humbled by your actions and owes so much.
“All day, every day during this the fireys. Your bravery and compassion will never
ever be forgotten. A ginormous thank you.
extraordinary. Special mention to Adam Wienert
and volunteers — your humility, leadership and
Jan Moogan
catastrophe, we think of you” Amanda Keller, radio and TV personality commitment to the community was a shining light “When you see their efforts
Thank you so much to all our wonderful at a time when we needed it most.
courageous firemen and the support teams who “The heat, the devastation, the To the dedicated team at Adelaide Koala first-hand, the enormity hits you”
are maintaining all the vehicles and fire equipment. Rescue, to Trevor Harvey and our humble Thank you to all the firefighters around Australia
Unbelievable work you are doing, my heart goes treacherous conditions” neighbours Jo, Steve, Paul and Danielle, we will for putting your lives on the line to save ours.
out to you all! And you are so truly in my thoughts Thank you to all the firefighters, emergency always remember ... always! Especially those allocated to the Shoalhaven
and prayers all day, every day during this services and volunteers who have dealt with so Kate, Adrian, Ava, Sid, Gus and Meg Brew, area, in particular Ulladulla and surrounding areas.
catastrophic event. I do not say that flippantly! much devastation, relentless heat, treacherous Nether Hill Farm I am a resident of Milton and noticed first-hand
Take care of yourselves, you caring, amazing, conditions and new challenges, day in and day the enormity of your tireless efforts.
courageous people!
Lija Kazlauskas, Maryborough
out, during all the latest fire crisis and saving so
many lives.
“To all the brave firefighters past Thank you for the past, present and future
duties you all carry out.
Barbara and Glenn Bermingham and present — we are proud” Shane Brook
“When this is all over we should As a former member of the RFS, I would like to
organise ‘thank you’ parades” “Bless each and every one of you congratulate all the current firefighters who gave
up their own time to go out and fight these
“Magnificent and selfless acts
To all the fireys, nationally, thank you. I am so who fought the bushfires” dangerous fires and helped all of those people who make us proud to be Australian”
grateful for all you do and sacrifice. May you stay Thank you beyond words for your amazing efforts. lost their houses, and not forgetting those I am so proud to be an Australian as I watch
safe. I am always thinking of you and hope each If there was a way of giving you more recognition, firefighters who fought those fires and sadly lost continuously our Aussie spirit demonstrated by the
state government will organise a ‘thank you I would fully support it. I can’t honestly say more, their lives. May you rest in peace and my sympathy magnificent firefighters, volunteers, neighbours
parade’ and a belated group Christmas lunch for because it’s not enough, but you have saved lives goes to your families. and generous public and companies. We will
you and your families. and property. Most of all, please take care of We are very proud of you. prevail and come back stronger with humility and
Thank you, thank you. yourselves, you need to. Bless each and every All I can say is a job well done and you are all certainly a wiser outlook. God bless you all.
Christine Prendergast, Clarinda one of you. heroes and you should be proud of all the hard work Terry Calbert, Henley Beach
Vicki Thornton
“Gary saved other homes while his
own was under threat from fire” “We all thank you a million times
over — we owe you all”
“There has been a
spirit that will inspire
I wish to recognise the work of my brother Gary
Mullinger who has been fighting the fires in NSW There are heroes ... and then there are HEROES!
for several months. His home in Eden was under On paper, it is impossible to truly express the
threat but he didn’t give up helping others to save
his own. Gary missed Christmas with the family as
enormous gratitude there is for what you did in the
face of these catastrophic fires, but you did it and on the road ahead.”
he was fighting fires. Thanks Gary, your work is you did it beyond anyone’s expectations.
appreciated. Thank you a million times over. As a nation, we We can think of no higher service than
Debra, Chris, Ben and Melissa Crennan, Eden owe you a lot.
Sharyn Ghidella, Brisbane that provided by our firefighters, many of
“As awful as this has been, the whom battled to save the homes of others
effort makes us proud Aussies” “Special connections were formed while their own burned down.
A very big thank you to all our heroes for all your on the front near our home” Their selfless actions reflect the
tireless efforts in our Australian bushfires disaster. There are no words that will ever convey the depth indominatable spirit of Australia — a spirit
Not only our firefighters but to all our emergency of gratitude we feel for those that risked their lives that will inspire the recovery ahead.
services for giving of their time. to keep us safe on and after Friday, December 20.
It goes without saying it makes us very proud to Special connections were formed with neighbours Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban
be Australian. Many, many thanks. and community volunteers, who left their own
All the ladies at Gladesville Women’s Bowling Club properties to stand by our side and support our
04
HONOURING OUR HEROES
HORSLEY PARK Charlotte O’Dwyer, daughter of RFS volunteer Andrew O’Dwyer, stands in front of her father’s casket, as RFS boss Shane Fitzsimmons watches on. Picture: Dean Lewins/AAP
“We share FIRSTLY, we need to acknowledge
the selfless sacrifice of three
wonderful young men.
We are blessed in NSW to have
wasn’t for their efforts.
I’d also like to thank my
profound extraordinary volunteers —
Geoffrey Keaton, Andrew
more than 70,000 volunteers
who do a variety of roles that
executive and the RFS team,
particularly Deputy Rob Rogers.
grief of O’Dwyer and Samuel McPaul — for
their selfless bravery, service and
come together as this volunteer
army, to serve and protect their
And, of course, I would like to
thank the government but the one
losing such sacrifice while protecting the community. Notwithstanding the person that stands out is Premier
wonderful
community for nothing in return. enormity of destruction and the Gladys Berejiklian. She has been
We thank you very much. tragedy of losing loved ones this quite remarkable.
young men.” With their families, we share the
profound grief of losing such
season, the losses would have
been considerably higher if it
NSW RFS Commissioner
Shane Fitzsimmons
“Lemonade stalls, money boxes “All those who looked on have fade, but the pain of the memories will be
everlasting. It’s OK not to be OK. And in those
disaster in order to save lives, wildlife and
property, has, and is continuing to be, beyond the
and a handful of coins all help” been inspired by what you did” not-so-OK moments, there is no guilt, shame or call of duty. I salute them all.
Nothing brings out the best in Australians quite We watched in awe as you left your friends and embarrassment in reaching out for help. You have It is also heartbreaking to see the wonderful
like a crisis. Whether it’s the fireys on the frontline, families to protect the friends and families of the whole of Australia on your side to help you. city of Melbourne where my close family live,
the pensioner donating a few of their scarce others. You are all truly amazing and should Just ask for help. covered in clouds of thick smog, which is such
dollars, or the kids running a lemonade stall on the forever be proud of what you have been able to Paul Tee, Flemington a health hazard, particularly for the young and
local street to raise funds for our hard-pressed do, for we are proud of you all. the elderly.
wildlife. Heroes have come in
all shapes and sizes during
Andy, Jo, Hamish and Lucy Thickins “Watching our beautiful country Hopefully the smog and bushfires will be a
thing of the past very soon, allowing the proud
these fires. “The beaut amount of money that burning is heartbreaking” people in the affected areas of Australia to enjoy
Now we need to work My heartbreak watching our beautiful country their lives once again.
on supporting the farms keeps rolling in is incredible” burning … the Adelaide Hills … and the amazing Carl Storey, UK
and businesses that have I would really like to thank our wonderful Kangaroo Island … CFS volunteers fighting to save
been so heinously affected. emergency heroes at this very sad time for their every step of the way … I take my hat to you all!
Support them with what you bravery, dedication and comradeship! I thank you all of you that have fought so hard
buy, support by where you For all the blood, sweat, tears and heartache, to save our country … our amazing unique wildlife
visit. Now and into the future. of all the suffering, lives lost and hardship, with so … my heart goes out to you all CFS volunteers, the
Matt Preston, food critic many poor helpless animals so cruelly taken. men and women that are fighting so fearlessly.
God keep you all safe and bless each and every You make me proud … to be part of the
“A message of thanks for Donald one of you. You are all doing an awesome job
keeping us safe. The beaut amount of donations is
amazing people called Australians.
You are all my heroes … thank you.
Webster, my absolute hero” incredible as the generosity keeps coming. Gosia Schild, Wayville
Donny of Kurrajong Heights brigade, you are my Liz Rolfe, Snowtown
hero. I cannot thank you nor repay you enough for “We felt safe with all our bunker
all that you have done and continue to do for the
Hawkesbury community.
“Special thanks to the fireys from buddies preparing for the worst” “We’re grateful you saved our
You genuinely are my all-round hero and the South Australian brigades” Thank you to the Gipsy Point community for house and our chook pen”
best male role model I could ever ask for. I would like to say thank you to Hayden Cross of keeping us safe. Dave/CFA (along with Mitch, Ken A big thank you to Duffys Forest and Nelligen RFS
You have been volunteering in our local Ardrossan CFS and Geoff Cross resident of Yorke & Bruce) you have our respect and admiration. — I don’t think we’d still have a house if it wasn’t
brigade for decades now and have put your life at Peninsula for several long shifts extinguishing and Kudos to Peter/GP Lakeside for looking after us for the two fire trucks that came. We had our fire
risk to protect our local communities and families. assisting CFS with several fires in upper Yorke while the crisis was ongoing. We felt safe thanks hose going but we were losing the battle. Our
Even when your own property is at risk and Peninsula especially the fire at Price, SA. Thanks to all our bunker buddies remaining calm while chooks send a special thank you, I’m attaching
Helen is home alone, you are out on the trucks from Bubby! preparing for the worst. Stay safe. some photos (above) to show how close it came
doing your best to help out other families. Peter McDougall, Hindmarsh Erica & Tom Evans, Mallacoota to them.
You honestly are the most selfless and John and Penny Pinfold, Nelligen
knowledgeable man I have ever met. “When the smoke clears, that’s the “Special thoughts from us looking
On behalf of myself, my family and the local
community, I want you to know we are incredibly time to support the victims” on from afar in the UK” “Heroes every one of you,
grateful and deeply appreciate the time you spend When the smoke clears and the TV cameras leave, After watching these horrific bushfire images on men and women alike”
away from Helen and the personal risks you take you will be immersed in a community that is national TV in UK, my heart and prayers are with To you who have given of your time, efforts and,
to protect us all. Love you always and forever. compassionate and resilient. The physical scars on the population. The bravery and heroics of the in some instances, your lives to fight these
Tilly Harry, Hawkesbury the landscape will regenerate, the memories may emergency services in an effort to suppress this horrendous fires to protect us and save our
05
HONOURING OUR HEROES
country. What amazing human beings you all are
and your achievements have been outstanding.
Words are not enough, but we send our
grateful thanks to every one of you and your
families.
Wayne and Margaret Owens, Westlakes
“I don’t think I’ve ever been more
proud to be an Australian”
At a time when we could have all felt helpless as
an angry Mother Nature burnt our beautiful bush
and beaches to a black crisp, lives were taken, and
an unthinkable number of our
wildlife were wiped out,
Aussies have become one
and rallied with a
purposeful passion we’ve
simply never seen before.
But at the centre of it,
inspiring and humbling us all,
have been our magnificent
firefighters who have so selflessly and consistently
put themselves in harm’s way.
I can’t begin to imagine the reality of what
they’ve seen or experienced, or how, when this is
all over, we can find the right way to show our
enormous gratitude. But when we do, we must
promise one thing: that as they have been there SARSFIELD Neighbours Brian Kidney, 61, and Phillip Perrin, 55, have each other to thank.
for us at the time of our greatest need, we must
promise to always be there for them.
They both stayed to face the fire front on New Year’s Eve and the two of them
managed to save their properties as others all around them burned. The two
“This has been a heartbreaking
Lisa Wilkinson, TV presenter were constantly looking out for each other during the bushfire as it raged right time for everyone”
through the night. Picture: Jason Edwards Watching our beautiful
“As a Canadian and honorary country suffer so much
over the past few months
Aussie, I am heartbroken” have lost loved ones, we are thinking of you. To has completely broken
From a Canadian and twice former Australia CSIRO our poor wildlife, we’ve lost so much, we wish the my heart. Sending all of
guest scientist. During my years at CSIRO in both injured all the strength to pull through during their my love and gratitude to
Melbourne and Sydney I grew to love your recovery. To the huge support and generosity of the incredible firefighters,
country, the people, the unique nature, and, yes, Australia and around the world, we thank you. volunteers and to every single
footy, and all else therein. I consider Australia my To the firefighters and volunteers on the person who has been affected by
second home. Thus I cannot express strongly frontline, who risk their lives on a daily basis to the devastating fires. Thank you for all that you
enough my woe at seeing all the daunting help our country, We would like to say a massive are doing and the sacrifices you’re making for our
accounts in the Canadian and Australian press of THANK YOU especially to you all. great country and its people and wildlife.
the damage and death relating to human and Quality Hotel Melbourne Airport Delta Goodrem, singer
animal life caused by this year’s out-of-control
bushfires. You have my deepest and heartfelt
condolences for all the unimaginable trials and
“It’s amazing to see Australia “You are the true heroes, not the
tribulation you are feeling at this time. really come together” soy latte-sipping greenies”
We are sending our wildfire fighting experts
and our donations but realise this is but a drop in
Hearing about people opening up their homes to
strangers, spending hours searching for injured
“Great sacrifices made to help out To the firefighters, volunteers and neighbours
who selflessly put themselves in danger to fight
the bucket in dealing with this horrific dilemma. animals, donating time, money, food and clothes their fellow Australians” the bushfires, I give a mighty thank you and
Jon Van Loom, Toronto has really highlighted how amazing our country is. From the bottom of my heart I thank all the blessing. It must’ve been extremely difficult to
I have so much respect volunteers, the workers and the amazing battle under those conditions.
“You deserve so much more than for the local heroes who
have been putting their
firefighters for what they are trying to do for
Australia. Many sacrificing their own way of life to
You are the true heroes, not the soy latte-
sipping greenies who ban land clearing and cold
thanks — so, so much more” lives on the line to help save and protect others. I am so, so sorry to burning the fuel loads in the bush.
All you dedicated, wonderful human beings protect our country. hear the news of people losing their lives to save Steffanie Chatelier, Mitcham
deserve the biggest, heartfelt thank you and so, My heart and prayers others. THANK YOU AGAIN.
so much more. I cannot even imagine how hot, go out to everyone who Alan Allebone, Hampton East
hard and soul-destroying it would be hour after has been affected.
hour fighting these fires. You are all the very
essence of good, caring people. May you have
Guy Sebastian, singer “Your Anzac spirit truly shines
much joy in your lives after this hell. “There wasn’t a single heart through during this disaster”
Thank you for your sacrifice and dedication. Thank you to all personnel that have been battling
Also to the wildlife carers for your wonderful care watching that wasn’t broken” the fires and continue to battle the fires all over
of our beautiful animals. It’s so heartbreaking I don’t think there was a single heart that wasn’t Australia, your Anzac spirit truly shines through.
watching the footage of burnt animals and to see broken watching the devastation of the fires Everyone knows someone that has been
what you all do is wonderful. unfold. Nothing has made me prouder to be affected. Gratitude, prayers and wishes are
Katy and John Houghton Australian than to see the way everyone has with you.
pulled together to help each other out. We are so Susan McLochlan, Caboolture South
“We wish all the injured animals lucky to have so many incredible men and women
the strength to pull through”
on the frontline fighting the blazes, the true
heroes and legends of this country.
“Grateful for the time you have
To the people directly impacted and families who Jesinta Franklin, model taken away from your families”
The words ‘thank you’ just don’t seem enough for
the sacrifices you have made to keep the homes
“Thank you for your and properties of your fellow Aussies safe.
So grateful for the time taken away from your “You are angels in yellow who
selflessness, we are loved ones and your daily lives in the pursuit of
helping others. Bless all our first-responders. stood shoulder to shoulder”
all so grateful.” Yvonne Coutis I sincerely thank each and everyone of you gutsy,
brave, courageous heroes for your selfless
“Without you, all we would be left commitment to fighting the unpredictable forces
Seeing so many people come together to with is nothing after all this”
of Mother Nature. Angels in yellow who stood
shoulder to shoulder, fighting the relentless
support those affected by the fires makes To all the fireys, SES workers, volunteers, catastrophic bushfires. I personally will never
me proud to be Australian. The devastation wildlife rescue services, armed forces and forget your stoic, never-give-up attitude.
caused to people, animals and our land is everyone who helped during this devastating Helen Holdey, Brighton
bushfire season — thank you from the bottom of
heartbreaking and I think it has deeply
affected us all. The heroes are the men and
my heart.
Thank you for putting your lives on hold to help
“If it was possible to thank you a
women fighting the fires and putting their lives and protect us and our beautiful wildlife. million times over we would”
on the line every day.” Without you, we would have nothing. Thank you a million times to all the heroes
You are incredible, outstanding, wonderful involved in the fight against bushfires.
Ash Barty, tennis champion human beings. Just saying thank you is not really enough as
Bless you all. you are all so brave.
Vandra Neylan, Bayside Ann and Barry La Fontaine
06
HONOURING OUR HEROES
“High praise for the RFS
commissioner and his crews”
Sending respect and moral support to Shane
Fitzsimmons and all at the RFS HQ.
I cannot imagine how difficult it has been for
the commissioner to stand up day after day and
report on devastation and the challenges faced by
his crews. He is doing a brilliant job.
Jennifer Elliott
“It’s just Australians helping
Australians — it makes me proud”
We’re constantly told what is “Australian” and
what is “un-Australian”, yet over the last few
months we’ve seen the true essence of our
country’s soul in the actions and efforts of our
incredible volunteers who have selflessly come to
help. From the heroic sacrifices of our firefighters,
to those who offered a stranger a safe place to
sleep for the night — these actions are unbound by
political or cultural backgrounds, just Australians
helping Australians. It makes me proud to be a
part of this wonderful country.
Osher Gunsberg, The Bachelor host
“You are our generation’s
equivalent of the Anzacs”
A century after the Anzacs first came into
being, you are our generation’s modern
equivalent. Facing an adversary that is fearsome,
not to mention often both faster and better-
placed, you’ve responded with courage, loyalty
and selflessness, finding new reserves of stamina
HORSLEY Rural firefighters all over the country mourned the death of Geoffrey Keaton, 32, and Andrew O’Dwyer, 36, while on duty in NSW. week after gruelling week.
PARK Hundreds of readers wrote in to pay tribute to all of those who died or were injured during the bushfire crisis. You astound us all.
Thank you for your work, your generosity and
your powerful demonstration that when a
catastrophe approaches, it is better to fight united
“Here is a poem I have written in recovered from that shock
when this comes along.
My heart breaks witnessing the devastation of our
unique, beautiful wildlife and innocent livestock.
than divided.
Annabel Crabb, ABC political writer
honour of the firefighters” Tathra and the This unprecedented destruction that will forever
Fire Heroes of the Bush Sapphire Coast has
escaped much of the direct
change the face of our country.
It’s a fact that victims of traumatic events need
“A new take on our love for our
The start of 2020, Oz was up in flames; fire damage in this current time to process their grief. The least we can do is precious sunburnt country”
Flames as far as the eye could see; crisis, but the economic offer comfort and empathy during this time. Our Blazing Country
We needed help from across the sea; damage will be widespread and Offering financial assistance and donating
Australia was in heartbreak mode. devastating unless action is taken very quickly. essential items is a great starting point. I am just We’ve loved our “Sunburnt Country” — our land of
Firefighters have a code; I am not talking about government action, so grateful for Foodbank Australia and that I have sweeping plains,
To serve and protect life; although that will be welcome when it starts to been able to contribute in some way and Of ragged mountain ranges — of drought and
Some of our heroes have fallen; flow. I am talking about people action. hopefully inspire others to do the same. flooding plains,
But they will never be forgotten. Right now. People are frightened and need good listeners We’ve loved her far horizons – we’ve loved her
Through these never-ending firestorms; What the Sapphire Coast needs quickly is to help problem solve. jewel sea,
Rises up a swarm; people. We need Australians to cancel their trip to Animals are needing immediate care and But now she brings sheer terror — with fires that
An army of generous spirits; Bali, Thailand or the Pacific Islands, please do not assistance. thousands flee.
Who are there every minute. enrich P&O shareholders by going cruising. It’s crucial to maintain and not lose momentum In all our years we’ve never seen such total
This devastation has brought loss; Instead, please come to the fire-affected areas as in our support for these communities. devastation,
But we will build a bridge to cross; soon as you can and help your fellow Aussies by Victims need us today, tomorrow and well into Relentless adverse weather brings destruction to
Through friendship we will rise out of the ash; simply having a good time. the future. Lets focus on stamina and strength for our nation,
And rebuild this Aussie bush bash. If you haven’t been affected by the fires where all to get through this together. Our daily news reports repeat the horror and
There’s blackened trees and buildings all along you live, please come and help those who have. Deborah Hutton, the grief,
the coast; Bring an empty Esky and a full wallet. Foxtel presenter With forecasts of returning winds that promise
From border to border it is just a roast; We need your dollars and we also miss the no relief.
Sadly that’s not all that’s ended;
The animals have suffered unattended.
sounds of families having fun in what remains a
very beautiful part of Australia.
“Thanks for your How does a family start again when everything
is gone?
From Skippy to Blinky Bill; Frankie J. Holden, entertainer tireless work” How do parents explain to kids, we have to just
We are at a standstill; Just want to give a massive go on?
Wildlife has been stripped to the bone;
You can hear the screams and moans.
“Victims need us today, tomorrow shout-out and thank you to all of
our firefighters around the country who have
Without a home, without their toys and precious
bits and pieces,
Farmers and their stock have also been affected; and well into the future” worked tirelessly to help protect homes and A future they see only filled with loss that
What will the government do to help the Like many others, I have sat and watched in horror communities. We can’t thank you enough for all never ceases,
unprotected? and disbelief as our country burns, shedding tears you have done during this tragic time. For every age the bushfires their trauma scars will
Good Samaritans have come far and wide; for our fellow Aussies who have lost everything. Alex de Minaur, tennis player leave,
To volunteer their ample time. And generations through the years may struggle
To those that need a helping hand; to believe,
Both human and animals on this land; That Mother Nature could inflict such utter
On behalf of Australia and the world, ruination,
I say thank you for everything you have done. Erasing whole communities in massive
Jessica Tilby conflagration.
Future generations too will hear of fireys brave,
“If you haven’t been affected by Those who gave their everything for others’
homes to save.
fires, come help those who have” With courage and tenacity they’ve fought day
I have lived on the Sapphire Coast for 15 years, after day
and have been a co-owner of Tathra Beachside, In places that resembled hell, they never walked
a holiday park at Tathra, for the last 10 years. away.
I have learnt much about the ingenuity and Where did they find the energy, how could they
resilience of country people, particularly small keep going back?
business owners and operators in the regions. Their efforts almost superhuman – their hands and
They put their balls on the line to provide for their faces black.
families and employ others. They are self- They all deserve a medal, they all deserve much
motivators and self-sufficient. more,
But they need help now, for sure. The fight they fought took all they had — as much
Tathra itself was badly damaged by fires in as any war.
March 2018, less than two years ago, with the loss KANGAROO Readers also thanked wildlife rescuers. Adelaide’s Simon Adamczyk in the And here are we all safe and sound with nothing
of over 80 homes, and we were just about ISLAND burnt out forest near Cape Borda. Picture: David Mariuz we can do,
07
HONOURING OUR HEROES
We don’t have skills to fight the fires — we’ve “Even in some of our darkest days
“How brave of you
ageing bodies too!
So what we can do, let’s dig deep for those whose our true spirit has shone through”
to head into danger”
homes are gone, Bravery takes many forms, but I can’t think of any
Let’s show them that we really care and help them more noble than that displayed by the women and
carry on. men of our fire brigades. These people put their
Jan Woolmer, Eagleby lives on the line day in, day out to keep people,
animals, homes and businesses safe. We run from the flames while you
“Let’s all continue to pray for Every Australian owes them an enormous debt
of gratitude. They are the very best of us. run towards them to keep us safe,
more rain to end this disaster” Our hearts go out to the families and friends of taking the definition of ‘hero’ to a
To all the firefighters, volunteers and anybody those who made the ultimate sacrifice. whole new level.
that has contributed even in the smallest way I can’t begin to fathom the enormity of their
during this devastating time, thank you! loss. The memories of their loved ones will never Thank you.
We are such a strong country and there is no fade. But even in some of our darkest days, the Bec Judd, radio personality and model
greater example of that than right now. true Australian spirit has shone through.
The way we band together as one, stick by It has been heartening to see communities
each other and find a way to get through the rallying together and people supporting each
tough times makes me so proud to call myself an other in the face of these terrible fires.
Aussie. Let’s all continue to pray for rain. I pray that conditions improve, the rains come
Michael Clarke, former Australian cricket captain soon and the recovery process can begin.
Justin Langer, Australian cricket coach
ferociously in the last number of weeks.
It is also of concern, on the best information
“Our continued support is needed
“It takes a special person to available from the Rural Fire Service, that the to help communities rebuild”
defend another’s home” “As a community we can be deeply emergency is not over. The amazing response from our volunteer
This brave army of quiet Australians defend grateful for the dedication” The work of the RFS and other emergency firefighters and emergency services people during
strangers’ homes as if they were their own. It is difficult to express the deep concern, worry services and the thousands of volunteers has been this unprecedented and catastrophic bushfire
You are special people who give not just at times and sadness we all have for the tragic loss of lives, extraordinary. As a community we can only be season has been nothing short of heroic.
of disaster but all year round to make this the livelihoods, businesses and, in some cases, whole deeply grateful for their dedication and selflessness. The stories of bravery and selflessness, many
amazing country we all love. communities, caused by the bushfires that have It has also been a time when the community after losing everything themselves, has been truly
Paul Murray, Sky News TV anchor been affecting our state for months now and more has rallied with kindness and generosity. The state awe-inspiring.
is also in a time of extended and serious drought Coupled with this, the
which continues to have a serious impact on way Australians have
families and communities. Again, the wider rallied to donate and help
community has responded to this crisis with their fellow Aussies
kindness, generosity and support. May this proves that we truly are
continue to be the hallmark by which we always at our best in times of
respond to those in need. need. I’ve had the privilege
I encourage those in need to put up your hand of seeing this generosity and
and ask for assistance when and as soon as compassion on display first-hand at the Foodbank
needed. Check out the services in your local warehouse in Western Sydney, where the
community, all of which are there to help and donations continue to flow in.
support you. To the countless volunteers who Our continued support is needed.
have bravely fought these fires; to those who have Rodger Corser, actor
donated food, clothing and money; to those who
have opened up their homes to strangers; to those
that have cared for the injured and the frightened;
“Forget the Oscars, the real award
and to those who over such a long period have winners are in the fire zones”
supported our drought-affected communities, I In a world obsessed with Oscars, Emmys and
extend heartfelt gratitude both personally and on Logies, the biggest awards and recognition should
behalf of the people of NSW.” be given to the fireys and emergency service
Margaret Beazley, NSW Governor workers who courageously risk their lives to save
and protect ordinary folk and wildlife.
“The burdens that you shoulder I would like to say the biggest thank you to
them, from the bottom of my heart.
belong to all of us” Stefan Dennis, Neighbours star
Australia’s volunteer ranks have no peer anywhere
NAROOMA Emerald Adams, Katarzyna Krilov and Lachlan Reilly are seen with their goat
Hansel in Narooma. They evacuated from Central Tilba and, like so many,
in the world.
“Let’s hope more rain — and more
camped out close to the ocean. Picture: Dominica Sanda/AAP resources — is on its way”
Thank you to the firefighters that have fought
How small, kind gestures so hard to keep everyone out of harm’s way,
despite a lack of support and no resources
can make things feel OK from our government.
There are so many Australians that have lost
their homes and many Aboriginal communities
WE were on holidays near eventually found a place to have been affected.
Mystery Bay on the south coast camp (with thousands of others) Let’s hope more rain comes along soon.
and were evacuated to on a nature strip near the Miranda Tapsell, actor
Narooma on New Year’s Eve, Narooma oval.
when the Tilba Tilba (Cobargo) A lovely local lady wandered “Thank you for helping to keep
Fire got out of control. over to our caravan, knocked on my parents and others safe”
It was a surreal experience, the door and said she couldn’t The local RFS have kept my parents and
the eerie feeling that day. offer us much help as she had no When we need them the most, they are there — other residents highly informed during the
often at great personal risk. threat of the Blue Mountains fires
The ominous red glow on the electricity, but she had a loo out But we honour them most by joining them and I can’t thank them
horizon as the enormous fire the back of her house across the because the burdens they shoulder belong to enough for the support.
front was pushed our way on a road, which we could use. She all of us. Not only have they
fierce wind, ash constantly even put a lovely candle in there Peta Credlin, Sky News anchor and Sunday held the containment
Telegraph columnist
raining from the sky, as day so we could find our way. line, they’ve held regular
turned to night at 4pm. A simple, kind and wonderful resident meetings which
There was no electricity, no gesture that made a frightening, “A grateful nation that is now have been overflowing
phone connection. I raced into uncomfortable situation so forever in your debt” and everyone was
accommodated for.
Woolies and was confronted much more bearable. To the incredible fireys and volunteer workers, There’s been a lot of anxiety up there and
with a blackout, people in total To the fireys on the frontline, thank you for your tireless efforts, for the time the RFS have provided exactly was has been
spent away from your own homes and families needed.
panic; crying and stockpiling we cannot thank you enough. and for encapsulating all that is good about the
water and toilet paper. We Samantha Armytage, Sunrise co-host That’s what’s going on at the moment at home,
Australian spirit. I’m up here now with helicopters flying overhead
We are forever indebted to you. carrying water.
Nicole Da Silva, actor Lukas Radovich, Home And Away star
08
HONOURING OUR HEROES
“Australia as a whole is one big “It was so hard to breathe with
family when things go wrong” smoke filling the air around us”
Our sunburnt country has seen many natural We were driving through the Blue Mountains to
disasters and fire tragedies throughout history, spend Christmas with our family in western NSW
but none more belligerent than those that have when we were left stranded.
struck fear, pain and loss across the states and All the roads in and out of Lithgow had closed
impacted not only humans, but our beloved because of the surrounding bushfires.
wildlife and flora this summer. It was terrifying, not only because of the fires
My heart goes out to the families of our burning around us, but it was hard to breathe with
bushfire heroes who missed their own family the smoke filling the air.
Christmas and other events, and never knew if We managed to eventually get out safely, but it
their loved one would come home — and some gave us a small insight into the seriousness of the
didn’t. Our men and women on the frontline have crisis. We can’t begin to imagine how terrifying
willingly put their lives at risk for fellow and devastating these bushfires have been for so
Australians and go to war on the many residents who have lost loved ones, their
‘beast’ that truly was homes and property.
unstoppable. And the enormity of the loss and injury to
Their bravery, wildlife is heartbreaking. The firefighters are
endurance and extraordinary heroes who risk their own lives and
commitment beyond properties to help and save others.
human sovereignties was From the complete devastation we have also
the poignant, yet powerful been inspired by the incredible compassion and
image that struck the hearts of generosity of so many Australians helping those
everyone around the world. devastated by the recent bushfires.
Living in Australia and myself in country South Natarsha Belling, Studio 10
Australia, we are vulnerable to the possibility of
fire, but we have such faith in our CFS and know
the call to action involves many responders who
“Our environment will suffer the
are experts in their field. effects of this for two decades”
South Australia, and Australia as a whole, is one Australia’s loss of over 18.6 million hectares
big family when things go wrong. through these catastrophic fires, is simply hard to
I am in awe of what has already been achieved comprehend.
in aid for this crisis and know there is much more My heart goes out to the families of those
to come as families and towns begin the huge task affected through the loss of life, their homes,
of rebuilding their lives and businesses. livelihoods and, of course, the
This is where our camaraderie and generosity surrounding habitat. Our
abounds and everyone from all walks of life pitch environment will suffer the
in to lend a hand, in whatever way they can. consequences of these
We have seen unforgettable scenes that will TRARALGON A relief convoy carrying much-needed hay to the devastated areas in East fires for at least the next
scar us for life and bravery beyond compare, but Gippsland in Victoria carried a special message of hope for those counting two decades.
it’s all part of being an ‘Aussie mate’, lending a the cost of the inferno. Picture: Mark Stewart Our flowering gums
hand or a shoulder to cry on, and then we get up could take up to 20 years to
and move on. recover and the loss of over a
Maggie Beer, South Australian food icon generosity that has followed has made us proud to There is no chance of that, as Australian billion of our Australian native
be Australian. communities continue to prove, day after day, animals is catastrophic.
Rebecca Morse, 10 News First News Presenter exactly how strong, relentless, determined and Bees in particular play such a pivotal role in
united we are. nature and the loss of millions of these precious
“We know you scoff at the To everyone who has
fought the fires, donated
pollinators is devastating.
Aside from the regeneration of our precious
suggestion of being heroes” funds or supplies, opened native environment, there are industries like
The courage and generosity of people helping to their houses or simply honey that may take a decade to recover.
fight our fires or support those efforts and the held the hand of There are many more foods, like almonds, that
victims was inspiring. someone suffering — rely completely on bees for production.
I got to thank a handful of mates and family thank you. Thank you for Let’s do all we can in our own backyards to
members who travelled well beyond their own encouraging me to do the plant more polysteminous plants (bottlebrush,
territory to fight fires in NSW and on Kangaroo same. Thank you for reminding grevilleas etc). These are plants with multiple
Island. the world what courage and kindness looks like. stamens that will offer the most amount of pollen
Some faced horrendous experiences and all Thank you for being brave, humble and that in turn will help support the critical rebuild of
scoffed at the mention of hero status. selfless. These horrifying few months have been our vital bee population.
They just did their bit, selflessly and quietly, truly devastating but we will rebuild what has Jamie Durie, House Rules host
not wanting plaudits. been lost.
“Everyone has felt overwhelmed Brilliant and brave.
Chris Kenny, Sky News anchor of The Kenny Report
Be strong, stay safe and be kind.
Elyse Knowles, model
by the scale of this disaster”
Thank you to the South Australian firefighters
who have sacrificed so much to battle blazes both
“These fires will test us and upset “In the face of tragedy, look
here and around the nation. us but they won’t break us” how much Australians lift”
You have put yourself in danger to save the It’s amazing how everything in your life can be The devastation of our sunburnt country has
lives and properties of both friends and strangers. placed so easily into perspective when Mother rocked us to our core.
I think everyone has felt overwhelmed and Nature shows her true colours. But the one thing I have been teaching my two
devastated by the scale of the bushfire crisis but These gruelling fires have tested us, upset us, boys throughout this whole ordeal when they
witnessing the outpouring of compassion and stolen from us — but they won’t break us. have been witnessing it on television is how proud
we all should be of the support.
In the face of tragedy, how Australians lift.
“It’s been absolutely
The voice of climate change is getting louder,
I just hope and pray that my boys and their
heartbreaking to
children get to experience this beautiful country.
We must do something serious about it or we risk
losing it.
“It’s a little sad we need tragedy
to start talking about the planet”
watch our beautiful Ryan ‘Fitzy’ Fitzgerald, radio announcer
I love that everyone has come together.
country burning” “As Aussies living overseas, Bondi surf club did an amazing job. Harries is
down the south coast with stuff donated from
you still feel the heartbreak” his sponsors.
Being Aussies living overseas we can seriously Yoga teachers I know are doing charity classes,
Homes, lives, communities and our feel the world is heartbroken for our beautiful I’m organising a session and will donate to charity.
precious wildlife have been lost! My hearts country. The lifeguards will be auctioning some stuff.
go out to all the families and communities Everyone is asking about our country’s safety I’m taking part in the relief run which is on all
and is genuinely rocked to the core for the weekend and has raised $650,000.
affected. I’m so thankful for the brave devastating loss of our beloved wildlife in such One of the challenges is which of the awesome
firefighters and volunteers on ground, unimaginable numbers. charities to donate to.
they really are our heroes. It’s amazing to see the relief efforts already I like the animal charities, personally.
under way from across the globe. My girlfriend and I have decided to go on
Jennifer Hawkins, model Our respect for the many firefighters, holidays to the south coast and the Blue
volunteers and officials who are at the front of all Mountains. I love the empty Esky campaign!
this devastation with the communities and animals. So much good has come out, it’s a little sad that
Andrew Tierney, Human Nature we need tragedy first to get people talking about
09
HONOURING OUR HEROES
Thank you to all volunteers. Words can’t express the devastation. We have
The courage of firefighters and all other witnessed the true Aussie spirit over the last few
emergency personnel is astounding but months through acts of selflessness, bravery and
particularly those magnificent fireys. kindness. We all need to stand together to rebuild
Thank you. and heal, this will take resilience and endurance.
Brenda Thankful4farmers and I will proudly be walking
beside our farmers and regional communities.
“While politicians squabble, you From one Aussie to another, thank you.
Matt Moran, chef, Great Australian Bake Off judge
just got on with what was needed”
The last few months has made it too easy to forget
we live in the lucky country. The images of fire,
“I have felt comforted by the
sorrow, hurt and destruction have been power of the Aussie spirit”
overwhelming, and as politicians squabble about Australia has shown the world what it means to
what should have been done, most of us just unite. I have been moved and comforted by the
wanted to know what we could do. power of the Aussie spirit.
And that’s when we saw you — our bushfire In the face of such devastation we found
heroes — do things that most of us wouldn’t dare. strength in knowing, together, we will get through
You’ve headed into the flames, you’ve picked up this. I take my hat off to all crews, volunteers and
injured animals while having to put down others, any individual that stood up because they knew
you’ve mobilised and saved entire communities, they could make a difference.
and you’ve held everyone together just as they A special mention to Commissioner
were desperately trying to hold on. Fitzsimmons, my vote for Australian of the Year.
As I’ve watched the bravery, stoicism and Michael ‘Wippa’ Wipfli, radio broadcaster
determination I feel nothing but thankful, and oh
so lucky that you have all been there, for all of us.
HARRINGTON These fires introduced Australians to the ‘pink cloud’ that saved dozens of Ali Clarke, ABC Adelaide radio presenter
houses around the country.
“This just shows that all of our
not destroying our planet. Some people deny
climate change but you can’t deny humans are
“It’s amazing to see how music has differences are just petty”
destroying the planet. been used to raise money” In the darkest of times, the brightest of hearts
Pray for change. The biggest thank you to our selfless fireys and shine to lead us and give hope.
Dean Gladstone, Bondi Rescue lifesaver emergency service workers — who not only risk Words cannot express the gratitude and debt
their lives for others, but sacrifice precious family all Australians owe to the men and women who
time at an important time of year. have risked their lives to protect and serve
It’s been heartwarming and inspiring to see members of our community in their time of need.
people from every part of Australia dig deep to As a community we face countless challenges
support each other, and as a musician it’s amazing and differences, and at times pride isn’t the first
to be able to see music directly help in raising emotion I feel when thinking of being Australian.
funds and lifting spirits. But through the unity and compassion so many
Amber Lawrence, Golden Guitar-winning country of our community have shown during this tragedy,
singer and radio host it is undeniable that all our differences are just
petty squabbles.
“The love shown to each other has At our core we are a community who love and
care for each other, no matter what may divide us.
been truly inspiring to watch” Shane Delia, chef
Seeing so much devastation and destruction is
heartbreaking but the one thing that has stood “We’ll continue to come together
out to me are the remarkable stories of resilience.
To see people caught in the middle of these to save our island home” “My daughter and I will forever be
“It’s so touching to see glimmers horrors still putting others’ needs before their own During such a horrific time for Australia, I have inspired by your acts of bravery”
is inspiring. The love and care shown by so many been overwhelmed by the bravery and resilience Thank you for showing us what true courage and
of hope amid the destruction” epitomises what it means to be Australian of our firefighters and volunteers. heroism is. Thank you for fighting so hard for our
It’s estimated that we’ve lost a BILLION animals in Mark ‘Soda’ Soderstrom, Mix 102.3 Jodie & Soda They are saving lives, homes, animals and the beautiful country and putting yourselves on the
the bushfires. Breakfast Show host land we live on, at their own risk. line every day and night.
Take a moment to digest that number. ONE How could we ever thank them enough. My daughter and I will forever be inspired by
BILLION. Unfathomable.
The images of wildlife suffering have been
“Not only have they saved lives My heart goes out to those who were affected
by the fires.
what you have done for Australia.
Jodi Anasta, actor
widespread and devastating. Australia is hurting. they’ve saved the Aussie spirit” As a nation we will continue to come together
Last week I visited Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
and I must say how touching it was to find a few
We have seen the true strength of Australian
mateship during this crisis.
and help save our island home.
It’s times like these I couldn’t be more proud to
“Let’s hope we can now stay
glimmers of hope. The fact that these firefighters are volunteers be Australian. united for the recovery ahead”
Lismore Rose (above) and many others are on and they go out and risk everything, not only their Tahnee Atkinson, model We owe our amazing firefighters and the many
the long road to recovery and eventual re-release. lives but their own homes, other volunteers the biggest ever thank you.
I’m truly in awe of Sue (president) and her staff,
not to mention the 150 volunteers.
properties and family
members to save ours is
“As a farmer, this bushfire So much courage, so much care and such an
extraordinary community effort.
They are literally saving lives. I know a lot of my the most admirable thing. disaster has really hit home” Let’s hope we can stay united for the long
friends and followers have donated and trust me, I don’t think Australia Our home is burning and our nation is hurting. As a battle ahead.
your money is in wonderful hands. You’re already can thank them enough, farmer, this has hit home and I am heartbroken, Mark Ferguson, Sydney Seven News anchor
funding medical equipment, water stations and an because right now they’ve
upcoming koala breeding program. Thank you. saved the Australian spirit.
Little examples like this will help us swing from To come out, take charge and
heartbreaking to heartwarming. It’s all we can do. fight in the way they have, has given
We have a long way to go, but let’s Australia hope of what the future holds.
acknowledge and support the incredible Megan Schutt, Australian cricketer and No.1 ranked
organisations on the frontline battling to help our women’s T20 bowler
precious wildlife survive.
Sam Mac, Sunrise weather presenter “A vote of thanks should go to the
“I’ve never been so humbled by hardworking SES volunteers”
We are in awe of the incredible efforts of our
the utter bravery you’ve shown” firefighters, SES volunteers and everyone else
Home for Christmas and heartbroken by the loss who is working so hard to protect people, places
of life, wildlife, habitats and and our precious wildlife.
communities we all know and Their strength, resilience and dedication are
love. inspirational, and we cannot thank them enough
I have never been so for all that they’ve done and will continue to do in
proud and humbled by the face of these devastating fires.
the utter bravery, the Andrew McConnell, chef
unerring strength and
spirit our volunteer men
and women who are out there
“Now everyone will understand
fighting these fires day and night. what ‘she’ll be right, mate’ means”
To their families and to them, we are all forever The world will now see just what the phrase
grateful. There are almost no words left to express ‘she’ll be right, mate’ means in Australia.
SNOWY RIVER, Many messages of thanks were directed to defence personnel, such as
what we are all feeling. Australia, I love you! She’ll be right because we have your back, we
VICTORIA these soldiers from the 7th Battalion who flew in emergency feed.
Starley, singer are all there pulling together when help is needed.
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