In the darkest and most difficult moments, we see the very best of our community.
Over the past week, as residents in Natimuk, Quantong and Streatham have endured tragedy, time and again the collective spirit of our region and the selflessness and bravery of our emergency services volunteers have shone.
It is difficult to articulate just how incredible our volunteers are, and so too the generosity and kindness of our communities in the wake of these devastating fires.
To those on the front line – the CFA volunteers, and those who turned out with private appliances – thank you for your incredible courage and tireless work.
With air support grounded because of the severe wind, and no aerial line of sight over this fire, it was these volunteers on the ground who – along with Forest Fire Management crews, other emergency services and incident control centre staff – worked relentlessly throughout the day and night in horrific conditions to protect our people and environment.
Without them, we would have seen far more property losses.
Our emergency services volunteers are the very best of us, courageously putting their lives on the line for the sake of saving others.
They are heroes, and thank you doesn’t seem enough for the truly incredible work they do.
In the wake of these fires, the generosity and support of the wider community for those affected has also been amazing.
Offers of meals, accommodation, pet care, food, toiletries, clean-up assistance, fodder and so much more has come in thick and fast, and it’s deeply moving to see.
It means so much to those impacted that people are so willing to help, and it makes me incredibly proud to live in and represent this beautiful community.
To every person who has contributed in any way to the emergency response and support in the aftermath, on behalf of everyone in our community I extend my most sincere gratitude.
We will get through this together.
Emma Kealy MP
The Nationals Member for Lowan
