Spaced apart by just a couple of days, two anniversaries at this time of year remind us of the awesome power of nature, and the incredible spirit of humanity.
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It was a year ago that the fire started in the Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area, eventually spreading to threaten the lives of those who lived in its path, and those who deliberately stood in its path and tried to stop its devastation spreading.
It took the better part of five days to control – burning out more than 1600 hectares in the process – with teams of brave and selfless NSW Rural Fire Service crews working around the clock to limit the damage.
Firefighters work tirelessly year-round to fight the city’s fires, but it takes a catastrophic event to truly appreciate their skills, effort, determination and passion.
Nine years before that, a fire on a much greater scale took a much greater toll. Most of us can still remember the shock at seeing reports of the out-of-control ‘Black Saturday’ bushfires claiming so many lives and homes back in February 2009.
As we look back with sorrow 10 years on, it remains a horrible event that those involved will never forget. The stories of friends, families, neighbours and even complete strangers reaching out in support could easily bring you to tears.
The compassion shown towards other people, their properties and the animals caught up in this tragedy was one of the most heartwarming stories to emerge in this country from such a terrible circumstance.
It is unlike Orange residents to sit back amidst a crisis and there were numerous firefighters from the region who went to assist to battle the fires.
And it wasn’t just the firefighters who played a crucial role in recovery of the affected areas after both blazes.
Sometimes it can be the small things that make a big difference, and country areas know how to offer comfort better than most.
A smiling face and the offer of sandwiches and cake can go a long way to help in the moment.
But long term, we know the impact of those fires have been life changing. We should be thankful there were no catastrophically-strong winds during the region’s recent heatwave in January, or we may have been facing that same threat again.
We’ve seen all too often how hot weather and an unfortunate event can start a blaze that can become out of control within minutes.
Firefighters work tirelessly year-round to fight the city’s fires, but it takes a catastrophic event to truly appreciate their skills, effort, determination and passion.
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