You may have seen news on the TV or Internet about the terrible bushfires raging across all of Australia.
It is supposedly the worst season in recorded history - loss of life, wildlife, livestock, pets, homes and businesses. Small towns cut off, tourists and locals trapped for days. Smoke and fire blocking out the sun. It is truly dreadful.
The Australian Defence Forces have been mobilised to support the rural and regular emergency services in each state. Many small country towns have been devastated but the Aussie spirit is alive and well. It will take a long time to recover from this catastrophe and the fire season isn't over yet.
My family have been incredibly fortunate. We live in the suburbs of the city and have been spared all but the smoke.
A heartfelt thank you to the men and women of the volunteer bushfire services; emergency services; wildlife services; various organisations such as Australian Red Cross and the Salvation Army; not to mention thousands of nameless people who stepped up to help a neighbour, a friend, a stranger, or a creature that needed help.
It has been a sobering end to the year and the start of the next.
So glad you and your family are safe.
ReplyDeleteThankful that you and your family are safe! Praying for all, as this is a disaster.
ReplyDeleteSo good to know that you are okay, my friend! I was getting even more worried when you had not answered my e-mail, but this blog is a much better answer to all of us. I've been watching the news everyday, and checking maps to see how far the flames were from your home town. I am so glad you are safe so far, and I trust it will be under control soon, or maybe better, that you could get a serious rain for several days. So glad to hear from you! Stay safe! ---"Love"
ReplyDeleteThe logistical problems as a result of these unprecedented bushfires are immense, aren't they. It will take many years to rebuild and recover. I hear Sydney has been shrouded in smoke on and off for a while. Even down here we have had days where the smoke is heavy in the air. There has always been a community camaraderie here in Australia and when catastrophic events occur such as these bush fires, people pull together and get on with the rebuilding and healing. When events like these happen the Aussie spirit rises to the fore. It is good to hear you and your family are safe, Ann.
ReplyDeleteIt is just heartbreaking watching the fires on the news. I am so glad you are okay.
ReplyDeleteIt is hard seeing the fires on TV and knowing how bad it is for the people and animals. Glad to hear you are OK and praying for all effected.
ReplyDeleteI have been thinking of you this week. The news from Australia is heartbreaking, and I can't imagine how it must be living it. I'm glad to know you are well, and hope you remain safe.
ReplyDelete