VIC Bushfire disaster

[readytogo]

I know many of us Vic residents have been watching and listening with concern to all of the fires currently burning out of control throughout Vic.

I am also sure there are BH members who are affected by these fires and I'd like to send plenty of :hugs: and support to those who need it.

There have been many lives lost and hundreds of houses destroyed and 10 major blazes still not yet under control. As a volunteer with a major organisation I would love to be out helping but obviously cannot as I was due yesterday. I know many people have said it would happen after Ash Wednesday, and looks like it has several country towns have almost been wiped out.

I know tonight I decided to do a clean out of all the unwanted goods I no longer use or need as I know there will be many who will need them soon. For those of us who are not effected maybe you could do the same I intend to call the red cross on Monday and see where things can be dropped off. If I cant be out there helping I'll do my best from home:)

For those of you who have loved ones out there on the front line my thoughts are with you all and for their safe return.:hugs:

[~Temet Nosce~]

Yeah its pretty scary. Luckily they aren't anywhere near me yet but I am worried for family that are near them. I havve been caught right in the middle of a huge bushfire when I was little and I have been terrified of them ever since.
I had the windows open last night and had to close them at about 2am cause the smell of all the fires started drifting over. Thank god for the cool change!!

[jaq]

I'm on the north east fringe and yesterday afternoon the sky looked horrible ... we couldn't figure out whether it was dust or smoke.

Obviously smoke, because people were losing their lives in Wandong and Kinglake, up in the hills from us. :(

Great idea Ready to Go ... I'll do the same. Have you any thoughts as to what people are likely to need most? Food items? Clothes? Sheets/pillows/blankets etc? And who would you take them to?


Apparently fires are still burning around Whittlesea and Yarra Glen, with blazes in as far as Doreen.

Anyone out Eltham/Diamond Creek/Wattle Glen etc etc, be very, very careful today. Look out for embers - because they can travel for miles, apparently.

Look at the CFA (http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/incidents/incident_updates.htm)website often.


And lets not get complacent about the cool change - CFA is saying it might even fan the fires in new directions.

Stay safe, people.

[WorkingClassMum]

Congrat's on thinking about others - I have been watching the tv with tears in my eyes

Before donating too many things, contact the Red Cross etc to see what they need.

After the tsunami for instance, many of the items dontaed where not practical - but this is at home and it may be different.

I know my Uncle who has been CFA for many years says that toiletries, nappies, women sanitary products, toothbrushes, bottles and underwear etc was the first things that people needed.

It was a day or so later that they needed clothes and blankets, and a few weeks to a month before they needed beds and furniture etc.

[hailsntwang]

Woke up this morning and all I can see and smell is smoke.

I don't know how bad it is around us yet but I know there was a fire only 12 kms out of town.

Will have to wait and see.

In a time like this, I am proud to see that people can still think of others, Good on you guys!!!:thumbsup:

[Lily_Pad]

Woke up this morning and all I can see and smell is smoke.

I don't know how bad it is around us yet but I know there was a fire only 12 kms out of town.

Will have to wait and see.

In a time like this, I am proud to see that people can still think of others, Good on you guys!!!:thumbsup:

please stay safe. i hope everything has calmed down up there...
ive been watching 'today' and they said the fire near benalla is moving towards euroa... i have family there. its terrifying :( even in tullamarine you could smell and see smoke in the sky.

[Nomsie]

Hailsntwang- I'm in Shepparton- I didn't hear about that fire?!? Would explain all the smoke here, too. :(

It's just so sad- I have been watching sunrise this morning, and have been holding back the tears. (Being a mum has turned me into a cryer!!)

Stay safe everyone!! :yes:

[Chunkydunks]

I honestly can't believe what I'm hearing. Its like the Canberra fires but on a broader scale. and with more loss of life. But even the one news program (I'm watching the ABC morning show) has mixed reports of how many have died and how many houses have been lost. Its just devastating.

Bit worried about what might happen around NSW today as there are numerous fires burning and we're expecting the weather conditions that victoria had yesterday.

[Jakois]

For all those that are effected by those horrendous fires I hope you all stay safe:hugs:..

[Lastcenturymum]

I'm so upset about these too. Just saw it on the internet when I got home. We used to ride a lot up round Kinglake and Strathewen (sp) - it's a dead end road, no wonder people got trapped and it turned so quickly, no time to get out. I have friends in St. Andrews too.

So upset for people, their losses and my country right now.:crying:

[Electric Rodeo]

My heart goes out to the families affected by the fires yesterday. I hope people keep safe till the threat is over.:goodvibes:

[sarbear31]

I have a good friend from kinglake. They were away yesterday and headed home late in the afternoon after they heard about the fire to defend their home. Well they did not even get close before they were told that their home was gone. They have an 8 and 10 year old who are of course heartbroken especially about their beloved pets.
I am trying to get some clothes etc together for them. Not sure what else to do I feel so helpless!:gloomy:

[bronny-jane]

i just read this

Another fire is burning out of control at Wybong, southwest of Scone, burning 140 hectares of bushland.

Rural properties came under threat on Saturday but none were destroyed.

Just south of the area in the Wollemi National Park, three fires have destroyed more than 1,000ha of bushland and continues to burn out of control.

The fire is burning approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Putty and 44km south of Denman.

we have fire to the north and south of us:eek:
i have a blocked nose, so i cant smell.. but im going to go outside and have a look

[Chunkydunks]

Oh geez BJ Hope everything is ok

[WorkingClassMum]

I am trying to get some clothes etc together for them. Not sure what else to do I feel so helpless!:gloomy:

School bags, stationery and lunch boxes etc for the kids, contact the primary school (if it's still there) and get uniforms etc

The kids will need to go back to school asap and get back into a routine.

Contact family and get copies of photos to re-do family albums.

Do you know what sort of mobile phones they have? They'll need new chargers - and maybe a phone provider will give them to you if you ask.

Apart from practical things - I'm not sure, just be there for them :hugs::hugs::hugs:

[Electric Rodeo]

I have a good friend from kinglake. They were away yesterday and headed home late in the afternoon after they heard about the fire to defend their home. Well they did not even get close before they were told that their home was gone. They have an 8 and 10 year old who are of course heartbroken especially about their beloved pets.
I am trying to get some clothes etc together for them. Not sure what else to do I feel so helpless!:gloomy:

:hugs: for your friend, that is awful. I hope they get lots of support to get through this. Hard to know how to help isn't it.
:hugs: again

[bronny-jane]

Oh geez BJ Hope everything is ok

well be fine still a bit of distance.. but they are class 3 fires:eek:

i feel so sad for those who have lost their families:(

[~Temet Nosce~]

I am hoping the rain we just had up this way heads towards all the fire effected areas. It has cooled down alot here today.

[subaruforestermum]

My thought are with everyone involved in the fires, have family involved in the fires, and are soon to be effected by the fires....

I too have been watching the news with such sadness, my heart goes out to everyone...

More than 100 homes have been lost, and it's just heartbreaking....

Stay safe everyone.....:(

And I hope the one responsible for this is found and is put away for a very long time...

[jaq]

I am hoping the rain we just had up this way heads towards all the fire effected areas. It has cooled down alot here today.

Lovely and cool here too, but no useful rain. Just smatterings. Hopefully more in the hills, where they really need it.

LCM - Nick rides up there a lot, too. In fact, he's gone with the Sunday bunch this morning - the ride that usually goes up Humevale and turns around at Kinglake. Hope they either a) get stopped by the police or b) use some common sense.

[Just Add Water]

WCM - very practical suggestions as to what people can do. I was going to suggest packing up toiletries and those "little things" as they are often forgotten about.

To all those affected by it I can only imagine the depth of your fears and how you must feel, I'm in Canberra and it's breaking my heart. So sending you lots of *hugs*

Obviously there are a lot of us on here with young children and perhaps with things to spare (toys, books, clothes, bottles). If anyone on here is in a situation where they are affected or know someone then please come on here and ask. Let us know what you need.

I'm sure this is one time when everyone on BH will be right there for you. Take Care.

[jaq]

Nick's back safe, TG. The fires up north of here are pretty much under control, but the bad news is, Kinglake is gone.

Nick said NOTHING is left, other than the pub. :( Even the CFA station was burnt out.

A whole village, just gone. How awful.

[readytogo]

I know several people currently at the emergency centre and evacuation points and the devistation is huge.

I know the abc news site has a page where people are offering services and goods to those in need. I know over the next few days the things needed the most will be asked for but it still is wonderful that even despite some of our own hardships we always manage to find something to help.

The cool change has helped in some ways but not others the fierocity of some of the fires means its creating its own weather as it goes and I live closer to melb and its a very solem day the colour of the sky and smell is daunting.

I spent several hours two weeks ago assisiting medically at a fire closer to home and I know the fireys were certain this would happen at some point just a matter of when.

[WorkingClassMum]

The Red Cross are caling for urgent blood donations

Everyone who hasn't donated on the past three month and are able to donate are being called to donate please


I haven't donated in the past three months :o, so will endeavour to drink drink drink today and donate today or tomorrow evening

[LizzardLover]

I'm in Narre Warren VIC not far from the fires there and we had burnt leaves falling in our yard. VERY scary. Thank god for the rain today is all I can say!!!

One of the teachers from my daughters school was on Channel 9 crying (lady with long grey hair in plats) because her house was destroyed :(

[Nomsie]

The Red Cross are caling for urgent blood donations

Everyone who hasn't donated on the past three month and are able to donate are being called to donate please


I haven't donated in the past three months :o, so will endeavour to drink drink drink today and donate today or tomorrow evening
WCM- can you remind me on who is unable to donate? Lactating and pregnant women? :detective: I will donate if I can, but I don't think you can if you are bf'ing?

[WorkingClassMum]

FAQ's about Blood Donation link (http://www.donateblood.com.au/page.aspx?IDDataTreeMenu=39)

The main items - you must be

b/w 16 and 70
not pregnant
not to have recently given birth
not had recent tattoos
must have normal/good iron count
must not have a serious medical condition
must not have been in the UK b/w 1980~1966 for more than 6 months
not be a drug user
not be a sex worker

ETA - not have a cold or flu/virus and not be on AB's and haven't taken asprin etc very recently



If you intend to donate, eat normally, drink plenty of fuids, wear sensible clothes (short loose sleaves are a good idea).

Cal 13 14 95 for more info or visit the site linked above :yelclap:

[Nomsie]

To further WCM's post



Breast-feeding - I am breast-feeding. Can I donate?
It is not advisable to donate blood while breast-feeding. Following childbirth, the deferral period is at least 9 (nine) months (as for pregnancy) and until your baby is significantly weaned (i.e. getting most of his/her nutrition from solids).

and



Childbirth - How long after the birth of my baby. Can I donate?
At least 9 months, or longer if still breast-feeding significantly at 9 months. See also breast-feeding (http://www.donateblood.com.au/page.aspx?IDDataTreeMenu=88#answer10).


both taken from site referenced above... so, apparently, I can't donate :(

[DivinelySophistimicated]

I know the abc news site has a page where people are offering services and goods to those in need. I know over the next few days the things needed the most will be asked for but it still is wonderful that even despite some of our own hardships we always manage to find something to help.



Can I please have a link to this page?

[readytogo]

Here is the ABC news link I dont know how to post it as one word though!

http://blogs.abc.net.au/victoria/2009/02/offer-help---or.html

[Lipsmacker01]

I'm in Narre Warren VIC not far from the fires there and we had burnt leaves falling in our yard. VERY scary. Thank god for the rain today is all I can say!!!

One of the teachers from my daughters school was on Channel 9 crying (lady with long grey hair in plats) because her house was destroyed :(

That is so sad :(

Im in Narre Warren too. Do u know exactly where those fires in Narre Warren happened? I imagine they would have been deliberately lit as Im not aware of this particular area being prone to bushfires. All I heard was that is was a grass fire and it was shocking to here that it was in my suburb:no:

Poor teacher, shes been all over the news. I really do feel for all those who are suffering. The news footage is pretty scary.

[Lipsmacker01]

The Red Cross are caling for urgent blood donations

Everyone who hasn't donated on the past three month and are able to donate are being called to donate please


I haven't donated in the past three months :o, so will endeavour to drink drink drink today and donate today or tomorrow evening

If u arent pregnant, do it! What a great idea.
I would if I could :(

[melly75]

Does anyone know if there are fires near Morwell as I have a friend there and cant get in contact with him, I dont know the areas that are near there to know if there are fires around there.
And my partners family are in Keysborough.I dont think theres anything around there :confused:

[LizzardLover]

That is so sad :(

Im in Narre Warren too. Do u know exactly where those fires in Narre Warren happened? I imagine they would have been deliberately lit as Im not aware of this particular area being prone to bushfires. All I heard was that is was a grass fire and it was shocking to here that it was in my suburb:no:

Poor teacher, shes been all over the news. I really do feel for all those who are suffering. The news footage is pretty scary.

The fires were on Crawley Rd which is just up past Ernst Wanke Rd going towards heatherton rd, opposite the fire station up there.

My parents are up at the foot of Mt Dandenong and were really worried for their house too but thankfully they didnt have anything much going on near them.

[readytogo]

For continual fire updates go to
http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au (http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/)
and look at the current incidents and advice pages they will have all the latest info as does the DSE website. For any road closures check the Vicroads website. Both these page links can be found on the CFA website.

[mum2bubba]

My inlaws live in Narre Warren and we live in Cranbourne we could see the sky all full of smoke yesterday. A few house in Narre Warren were burnt down not far from the inlaw's.

[LeeJ]

It is just devastating...

We had one down our way yesterday, contained pretty quickly.

I am so glad dh didnt go to marysville fri, he was supposed to be going to work on machinery, but cancelled because of the fire bans....

We have dear freinds in diamond creek, they feel they are ok, but they have been fighting fires at her mums house all yesterady.

Just devastating...:gloomy:

[bubbleyblossom]

Just showing another thread (http://www.bubhub.com.au/community/forums/showthread.php?t=237406) the same as this one, started at 1am :) Hope we can do something for those in need.

[Out To Pasture]

I live about 20mins away from one of the minor fires, but about an 1hr away from the bigger ones.
I have alot of family and friends up that way, and I do feel really scared for them. I have done what I can at this point, and know that most of them got out ok. I am actually sheltering a few of them at the moment.
Very full on.


These were advertised on the tv, if you need any help findng out about a loved one here.

Family Helpline

1800 727 077

Bush Fire Information Line

1800 240 667

[melly75]

Just got through to my friend.The fires are burning 15kms away from him. 2 of his friends have lost there homes and he said yesterday the sky was black and it ws raining ash ..he said he was just waiting for the 4 horsemen to go riding past it was that scary he thought it was the end of the world.

His house is covered in ash and soot but hes okay for the time being.

Hope everyone over there in and around the fires stay safe and the fireys get some relief soon :yes:

[Out To Pasture]

Just got through to my friend.The fires are burning 15kms away from him. 2 of his friends have lost there homes and he said yesterday the sky was black and it ws raining ash ..he said he was just waiting for the 4 horsemen to go riding past it was that scary he thought it was the end of the world.




I was born the year after Ash Wednesday. 1984.
My mum told me stories on what the weather was like those 3 days and the events that took place.
And raining ash, a red sky until 2pm, when everything went black.
She said it was an event she'd never forget.

I think this one will be one I wont forget. With the cool change, I could smell nothing but smoke, and it made it very hard to sleep.

[Zoey]

Just for those who have/know someone who has been forced to evacuate or have lost their homes due to the bush fires... Telstra (and probably other telephone service providers) have put together a package for their customers and are providing free incoming call diversions from your home phone to another number. For those that have lost their homes there is also the availability to have outgoing calls made from a telstra mobile phone charged at home phone rates. Contact your telephone service provider for information... at least then people can keep in touch & know you are safe.

Hope everyone is keeping safe :hugs:

[readytogo]

Sending big :hugs: to those who have families and friends in the affected areas, and also to those who are volunteering their skills, time and goods/services, homes etc.

It has been a very long 24hrs for Vic and hopefully with interstate re-inforcements coming loved ones will be home soon.

To those in the affected areas I think everyone's thoughts are with you and we are all hoping things are ok.:hugs:

[Shananaaah]

I wish I could tell KRudd to give my $950 to the fire appeal.

[RoarsomeMum]

It's certainly alot calmer here in Morwell Today. Hope everyone is keeping safe.

In Gippsland, There is a need for people with space to help house Pets from those who have lost/evacuated property. - Not sure about Melb area's, but Call your local Radio station or community center for details.

:hugs::hugs::hugs::hugs: everyone who is gathering up items to donate, Helps more than you think xx

[EmmasMummy]

Praying for everyone down there .... watching the news in bringing tears to my eyes

[codswallop]

:hugs:for all
if you can make up sandwiches or donate tea/coffee/ fruit juice and drop it in to the fierys its always appreciated ( my Dad said there was nothing better than getting 5 min to undo your overalls and eat a sandwich that didn't taste like ashes):fingerscrossed:

[bubbleyblossom]

I wish I could go to wherever Im needed and help, even looking after kids or something!

[~Temet Nosce~]

current death toll is 49 :crying:

[Love is all you need]

Its now even higher at 55 at least...last updated :crying:

[Love is all you need]

I wish some of the media crews would stay out of the areas where people have lost their lives :(

[LizzardLover]

My dad has just been called up to help with the fires. He drives a water tanker for work and apparently up at one of the places they havent got much water to fight with so he has to take a tank of water up. He's getting a police escort to get there!! not sure if he has to just do one tank or several.

*fingers crossed* that he gets there/back safely.

[Love is all you need]

:fingerscrossed: that he gets back safely hun.

[bubbleyblossom]

Fingers crossed for your dad

[*babygirl*]

:gloomy: my heart is breaking... whole families found dead... i cannot fathom the heartbreak:gloomy:

i could not imagine losing ALL my posessions... all my security in a matter of minutes/hours... then to lose loved ones and be left with nothing.. my heart is definately going out to all those affected and all those still fearing for the worst:crying:

[Out To Pasture]

The death count is rising so quickly....
This morning it was 25. Now it is 69! It's just earth shattering

[logiesmummy]

I feel for these people who are losing everything. It really makes me reasses my problems and they seem trivial compared to the devestation these people are going through.

For those who are wanting to know how they can help contact your local red cross.

[MummyDaddy]

So sad ... just tragic ... I hope any BubHubbers affected are safe ...

:hugs::hugs::hugs:

[SalTheGal]

Argh, I have been an emotionbal mess today, pregnancy hormones don't help but my heart just aches for all the devastation that has occured in Victoria today.

I have been listening to ABC radio (774am- the official CFA info station) and had the television on all day and it is just unfathomable the destruction that has taken place.

This ABC website is a great resource:

http://blogs.abc.net.au/victoria/2009/02/bushfire-help.html

http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2009/02/06/2484632.htm

They have a brilliant message board where if anyone has anything they can offer sufferers such as accomodation (caravan, holiday home, etc) you are able to post your offer there.

It also has all the relevant numbers and associations that can be contacted to help or for more info.

We live on a bush block in a wildfire overlay area and every hot day I am nervous about our area, we have so far been blessed with nothing...but it just hits home how quickly it can all happen.

My thoughts and prayers are with all who have been affected, I have been cleaning out my cupboards to find anything I can to donate.

:gloomy::gloomy::gloomy:

[WorkingClassMum]

Brian Naylor (retired well loved Victorian News reader) is missing in King Lake and his wife has been found deceased.

[Love is all you need]

Just found out an old school friends dad is missing in the bush fires :(

[~Temet Nosce~]

I have just registered to give blood. Don't really have much else to give right now.

[Funkychicken]

Just adding to this thread.

The Red Cross cannot accept goods at this stage, but money donations can be made via this page.

http://www.redcross.org.au/vic/servi...ppeal-2009.htm (http://www.redcross.org.au/vic/services_emergencyservices_victorian-bushfires-appeal-2009.htm)

Blood donations can be organised through this site. Please be aware that you may not get through for some time, so you will need to keep trying until you are placed in a queue.

http://www.donateblood.com.au/

If you have goods to donate, take them to your nearest Salvation Army as soon as you can, taking note not to pile goods outside of closed centres.

http://salvos.org.au/

Donations can also be made though the Bendigo Bank.

http://www.bendigobank.com.au/public/about_us/news/news_dbdetail.asp?nID=537

Also, donations can be made through the NAB.

http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/About_Us/8/5/14/NAB+establishes+$1+Million+bushfire+relief+fund

[Chunkydunks]

Last news I heard said 76 now confirmed dead:gloomy:

[SweetMazz]

We had already cleared out alot of our household goods so are not in a place to help out that way... so I have donated my next beautician's cost to the red cross line... its something that I can easily go without to help someone in need...

I donated $50 online to Red Cross' Vic Bushfire Relief :thumbsup:

http://www.redcross.org.au/vic/images/1x1.gif Victorian bushfires 2009 - Appeal The 2009 Victorian bushfire Fund to assist individuals and communities affected by devastating bushfires in Victoria has been launched by the Premier John Brumby in partnership with Red Cross and the Federal Government. A number of corporate organisations including NAB, ANZ, CBA and Wesfarmers have also contributed to the fund.

An independent panel made up of community leaders will oversee the appeal Fund's operation. Criteria for assistance will include the extent of the hardship covered and the extent to which a person's livelihood has been impacted.

Donations can be made using our secure online donations form (https://www.redcross.org.au/Donations/onlineDonations.asp) or by phoning 1800 811 700.

[stardance]

toll is now 89 the fires are the worst ever in Australia, worse than Ash Wednesday :gloomy:
i am now figuring out how i can donate blood with two 1 year olds with me.
and will definitely be dropping clothes and unused/unwanted goods at salvos first thing tomorrow.

:hugs: to the people involved and hoping those who have tragically lost their lives are now at peace.

[WorkingClassMum]

:( Brian Naylor is confirmed deceased :crying:

[readytogo]

Unfortunately Brian Naylor has been confirmed dead along with his wife. After speaking with several CFA personell the death toll will climb over the next week, to all involved your are in my thoughts.

[Phyllis Stein]

Feeling completely numb here. We're on a bush block in the Central Highlands region - nothing too close by but close enough to keep me nervous. I hope everyone stays safe until the worst of the threat has passed.

I'll be donating blood asap and helping out at a wildlife shelter. Not sure what else I can do.

So, so tragic. :(

[bubbleyblossom]

As soon as I find out my blood type I'll donate blood, will see to that tomorrow

Rest In Peace to all those poor people :( I am devastated

[WorkingClassMum]

I've eaten a large meal tonight so that I can donate blood tomorrow - South Melbourne was too busy to take any more people today.

I feel sicken and so sad.

Every news flash is worse and worse.

Several friends/extended family have either confirmed they've lost houses, or that they just don't know yet. One family member has lost 10 dogs when the dog trailer caught light.

We have extended family scattered from Narre Warren to Healesville.

This is so awful, and has been predicted for awhile now.

[shockinamillion]

I will be donating money as soon as I get paid, this is such an awful tragedy, if I weren't preggers I would be donating blood.

Stay safe Hubbers. :(

[bubbyboy]

I know so so many people who have lost EVERYTHING. Kinglake & surrounds have been near flattened. It's just all so horrible.

[peta1410]

I feel so saddened by this tragedy, as I'm sure we all are. So many lives lost, homes and property destroyed, towns virtually wiped from the map! I can't even begin to imagine how any of that would feel. And I'm so horribly disgusted that this was started by sick and twisted people.
However I'm so proud of this country that we can rally together at such times and give as much as we can, whatever we can. My prayers are with all those affected at this horrible time. :gloomy:

[~Temet Nosce~]

Feeling completely numb here. We're on a bush block in the Central Highlands region - nothing too close by but close enough to keep me nervous. I hope everyone stays safe until the worst of the threat has passed.

I'll be donating blood asap and helping out at a wildlife shelter. Not sure what else I can do.

So, so tragic. :(
I used to live out that way too, have moved into town now so a little less on edge.. but jeez its still so scary :(

[Guest1234]

:( I cant believe that this is happening.
I feel so heart broken and affected by this. About a month of so ago we had a huge fire 20 houses away from my house, and I felt the fear, even though this fire wasnt as big as the Vic ones.
I really cant imagine what it would be like to actually go through this, and lose everything from house, to pets, to family :(
I wish I lived closer to help house families, or even pets, but im not, so I will do what I can to help.

I just wanna curl up into a ball and cry.

[~Temet Nosce~]

Do we know if all vic hubbers are ok? I hope so

[Mum2Bug]

I've eaten a large meal tonight so that I can donate blood tomorrow - South Melbourne was too busy to take any more people today.

I feel sicken and so sad.

Every news flash is worse and worse.

Several friends/extended family have either confirmed they've lost houses, or that they just don't know yet. One family member has lost 10 dogs when the dog trailer caught light.

We have extended family scattered from Narre Warren to Healesville.

This is so awful, and has been predicted for awhile now.

Aww hun :hugs: I will keep your family in my thoughts. You are such a wonderful friend to me, its the least i can do.

[ryma]

I am devastated about the passing of Brian Naylor and his wife. I grew up with "Brian told me" and he was a great man!
I won $200 on tattslotto last night. I am giving the lot to the appeal as I can do without!
We have friends in Drouin and fire came incredibly close to their property.
May everyone stay safe!

[OneNowOneLater]

Does anyone know of the status of the Bendigo Fire???

[Lozie]

:hugs::hugs::kiss::kiss: to all affected my thoughts and prayers are with all the peoples lives destroyed by the fires tomoro i am cleaning out my house packing my trailer and heading down to my nearest salvo's and donating all i can i was going to have a garage sale but this seems better to me! hugs and love to all:hugs::hugs:

[Mum&bubs]

It's so heartbreaking :( I couldn't believe my eyes when I read the death toll is expected to go over 40... and now it's way above that :crying::crying:

So horrible. Stay safe everybody.

[ZooKeeper]

Just numb at the scale of this -- not sure if our local Salvos in Northern NSW will be taking donations of stuff, but have emailed Greyhound Freight suggesting they might like to take (for free) parcels of useful stuff down there from people in NSW & Qld.. if they buy that idea, I'll send the news around my media & community list for both states. Hopefully we'll have fundraisers up here, being a bushfire area everyone's fairly aware of what a disaster they are.

So sad about so many deaths of people, and animals... haunting.:gloomy:

Stay safe all you Victorian tiddas and your families. If it weren't for bear I'd be on the road with my RFS jaffa suit & boots to help out.

I second the posts about dropping food & cool drinks off to the fireys & other volunteers, and also they probably need help at the evac centres, especially from people who can give some cheer to the kids, it's hardest on them I think. ABC on-line has all the contacts for the various Shires at the blog about helping.

:hugs::hugs::hugs: and prayers, many heartfelt prayers for everyone

Zooy

[Mahjong]

Would anyone know how I would go about donating blankets and clothes for people in VIC? Im in QLD. I have blankets and baby clothes that I no longer need that I WAS going to give to Vinnies, but Im thinking the people affected in VIC would desperately need instead.

We cannot afford $$ donations at the current stage, but I really want to help by donating something to make it easier.

ETA: I would also give blood, but Im anaemic, so that's out :(

[WorkingClassMum]

There's now 108 dead, and scores still missing and many burnt and injured

Over 750 homes lost

There's still 10 fires burning out of control

Please God, let it stop...:crying:








If you wish to donate goods, give it to you local Vinnies etc 'cos the money will filter down

[~Temet Nosce~]

108 :crying: I knew it..

[spoon]

:crying::crying::crying::crying:

Praying for better conditions today.

[readytogo]

I know for years it has always been said 'we'll have another Ash Wednesday' I dont think anyone ever thought the devastation would be so much worse and on a such horrific scale.

I was just under a year old when Ash Wednesday hit the Mt Macedon area where we lived. My parents lived there until I was 17 and then moved to QLD where there are current flood warnings. I am overdue by 2 days and they arrived down yesterday with my dad being greeted by scenes he saw 26 years ago.

I know we will be all shocked to also hear of the people who are going into the devastated areas to sightsee!! I have msgd all my friends who I know are either fighting the fires or providing medical support. As I know in the next coming weeks some of them may need our help to deal with what they have been through as well.

I can only hope the fires are conrtolled soon and no more lives are lost as the toll is constantly growing from the weekend.

:hugs:For those of you waiting for news of friends and family my families thoughts are with you and we hope they are safe and well.:hugs:

:hugs: For those of you have suffered a loss our hearts go out to you in your time of need and we hope you will find some comfort in knowing the entire country is thinking and crying with you:hugs:

[Out To Pasture]

I find it most sad, I have been to Marysville. Used to stop there on our way to Eildon on the otherside. Most of those trees and buildings were like 100yrs old!
I was so sad to see the wreckage and go.. "Hey, I have been there.."

It really is heart breaking. And now the word that the fires of Kings Lake are on their way to Alexandria, that really leaves me so upset.

It's so scary to know that the places are alot closer then I think.

I am still waiting to hear something along the lines of Mt Dandenong being set alight. That mountain is dry as a bone.

[bubbleyblossom]

I woke up this morning to see 108 people have been found perished in these fires. To say I am devastated is an understatement. In one year, Australia loses 300 or so people to car accidents, and in 1 day, Victoria lost over 100 people to a bush fire, with more expected. This is the worst event I have ever seen in my life, and I hope one like this never happens again.

[Mahjong]

Thanks WCM. 3am this morning it was 84, I wake up 3 hours later and see it's 108. My god, I cannot imagine the last moments of these people :(

I want to know, where the hell are the USA firies to help out? Every year we send OUR guys over to help out :mad:

The UK Prime Minister has offered his help in any way.... anyone heard Boo from Obama?? :confused:

[Out To Pasture]

That's a good point....
But you gotta remember the U.S really only cares about events that happen in the U.S.

We shall see what happens

[meggs11]

You are in my thoughts and prayers...... I am so sad and distressed by this horrible event...... I don't even know what to say......:no:

I lived through the bush fires in Canberra and will never forget it...... devastated........

[Miaow]

So sad all the deathes, property damage and devestation :crying:

[Silvana]

This is horrible and I hope they catch those that are responsible for starting these fires.

108 counts of murder.

My thoughts are with those who have lost everything, families, and let's not forget the poor animals that have also lost their lives.

[bronny-jane]

as soon as i see footage of the people and burnt cars, im in tears.. what a horrible way to die:(

im stunned that whole towns could be wiped out..

and those who have nothing... makes you appreciate just being alive

[Love is all you need]

BJ it is horrible seeing those images made me so sick inside just the fear they would've gone through...and that there is no reason why the fire picks out some and not others and the same with houses....
It does make you appreciate your kids and loved ones and your own life the amount of kisses and cuddles I gave to DD last night...I wish the PM would give the stimulus money to the victims and to the flood victims as honestly others really don't need it in comparisson to these people.

[Out To Pasture]

I saw that Centrelink were giving $1000 to each adult and $400 to each child effected by the fires.
You know with that kind of money, it doesn't make up for the loss of a house and your life time supply of memories and possessions.

[*babygirl*]

and $5000for funeral costs.:(

i watched it last night in shock... it looked like some kind of sick movie... i cannot even BEGIN to imagine what it is like being in the thick of it and fearing CONSTANTLY for my life and my daughters life... or distant family.. or nearby friends.:gloomy: the whole thing just breaks my heart.

[Jakois]

I saw that Centrelink were giving $1000 to each adult and $400 to each child effected by the fires.
You know with that kind of money, it doesn't make up for the loss of a house and your life time supply of memories and possessions.

That is ONLY an immediate payment to help with a few clothes and toiletries for the first few days/weeks. It's not a payment to help with the task of actually rebuilding their lives.

There is a disaster relief fund being set up. That will focus more on the rebuilding of houses and towns.

[DB&O]

[SIZE="2"]I feel sick, every time I see images from the affected areas & think about what those people have endured its just gut wrenching. My heart breaks for those who lost everything, those searching for loved ones, those who lost there family pets & most of all those grieving for loved ones who perished. I'm really struggling to find the words to describe just how sad I feel for everyone. [SIZE]

[mum_inlove]

It's heartbreaking, I just couldn't stop crying when I see all the footage on tv :crying:

[Chunkydunks]

This is horrible and I hope they catch those that are responsible for starting these fires.

108 counts of murder.

My thoughts are with those who have lost everything, families, and let's not forget the poor animals that have also lost their lives.

Manslaughter:banghead:

I wish it were murder they would be charging this person/these people with

[~Temet Nosce~]

Just some info I posted on another thread

Victorian bushfires 2009 - Appeal The 2009 Victorian bushfire Fund to assist individuals and communities affected by devastating bushfires in Victoria has been launched by the Premier John Brumby in partnership with Red Cross and the Federal Government. A number of corporate organisations including NAB, ANZ, CBA and Wesfarmers have also contributed to the fund.

An independent panel made up of community leaders will oversee the appeal Fund's operation. Criteria for assistance will include the extent of the hardship covered and the extent to which a person's livelihood has been impacted.

Donations can be made using our secure online donations form (https://www.redcross.org.au/Donations/onlineDonations.asp) or by phoning 1800 811 700.
Red Cross Response

Around 400 Red Cross volunteers have been working across the state to:



register the names of people affected by the fires so that family and friends can contact Red Cross to check that they are ok
provide meals for fire fighters, police and other emergency services personnel, as well as people in relief centres
provide first aid to assist emergency services personnel and affected people
provide personal support to volunteers -- emotional support, information and referrals to recovery services

Checking on friends and family in the area



People should ring 1800 727 077 if they are unable to contact someone in the affected areas.
Details on the full impact of the fires are sketchy as many of them are still burning. We continue to be guided by fire authorities and the State Government.
Our focus at the moment is to ensure the wellbeing of people who have been affected by the fires.

Businesses wanting to donate

If you are a business and want to donate to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal 2009, you can email businesspartnerships@redcross.org.au or phone Chris Rawlins on 02 9229 4135.

Please do not donate goods

Red Cross is not requesting or accepting donations of goods. We are focused on helping people affected by the fires and the emergency workers in their ongoing efforts. It is unclear at this stage whether any other organisation is accepting goods.
Volunteering

Red Cross is currently compiling a list of people who have registered their interest to volunteer. We are not in a position at the moment to utilise the people on this list, however we will be in touch with them later in the week if the situation changes.
Other agencies and contacts



Salvation Army is providing emergency relief
St Vincent de Paul -- general inquiry line operational tomorrow
Brotherhood of St Lawrence is not accepting donations of any kind for this event at this time
Smith Family not currently accepting donations of any kind specifically for this event
Australian Red Cross Blood service is encouraging people to donate blood. People should call 13 14 95 during Monday to Friday to make an appointment.



though I'm sure it's been posted before somewhere, thought I'd post it again

[Out To Pasture]

That is ONLY an immediate payment to help with a few clothes and toiletries for the first few days/weeks. It's not a payment to help with the task of actually rebuilding their lives.

There is a disaster relief fund being set up. That will focus more on the rebuilding of houses and towns.


I know that, I just kinda looked at it and thought, it really didn't look enough to me.. perhaps it's just me.

[Just Add Water]

Not sure if anyone is in Canberra but but 106.3 has a container out at Gunghalin where you can drop stuff off and they will be arranging a truck to take it down to Vic. The salvation army is also accepting donations, but please contact your local centre to ensure that they can take what you have. Oh, 106.3 is also able to try and organise pick up from your house if you can't get it there.

[RoarsomeMum]

Guys, if you are struggling for where to take beddind, other physical donations, please call your local community center.

We have been told that all items taken to local St Vinnies (even out of state) will be appreciate, sorted and distributed into the neccesary area's. We all appreciate your Prayers.

xxxxxxx Stay safe everyone.

Anyone concerned, Gippsland area is looking far safer and under control.

Hope all other area's follow Suit ASAP. xxx

[Jakois]

I know that, I just kinda looked at it and thought, it really didn't look enough to me.. perhaps it's just me.

I know it looks like a measly amount compared to what they have just lost:(.

But to get food and toiletries over the next few days is, I suppose, the main aim.

The rebuilding will come when the shock of it all starts to subside.


It's a complete disaster. It rips at my heart every time I see a report.
Those Poor, Poor people:(.

[OneNowOneLater]

Does anyone know the status of the Bendigo fire, and what direction it is heading?

[WorkingClassMum]

Does anyone know the status of the Bendigo fire, and what direction it is heading?

DSE Site (http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/DSE/nrenfoe.nsf/LinkView/519C51D981DAE41FCA257257000A5163DC25C965BDA0CAF5CA 2573B400013504)

but please do not stay on that site for long, it's experiencing very heavy usage

Please do not access the DSE site unless for personal safety

[Chunkydunks]

That $1000 is most likely meant to get them by until disaster relief payments come through. Centrelink will most likely do everything they can do to get some sort of payments happening for those who can't go back to work yet or simply don't have a job to go back to. What can sometimes take up 6 weeks will hopefully only take a week or 2. Also after the canberra fires insurance claims were being processed in about a week so I'm sure the same thing will happen here.

[OneNowOneLater]

Thankyou. My bestie is about an hours drive from Bendigo, and as we all know, fires can move really fast. I just hope it hasnt moved towards them overnight!

[bubbleyblossom]

111 now, with it expected to climb drastically!!!
And the Churchill fire is now going again :(

[LeeJ]

My aunt and uncle live in King Lake,

My aunt was at work when the fires came through.

My uncle had packed up the car, (there was no imminent threat then) and walked up to the cfa to check which way he needed to go to get out, they told him 'theres no way out'. he got back to the house, and the fire was there, he grabbed a wet blanket and run into a ditch.
He said the fire went over them, then came back, and went over again.
He said there was no warning, no nothing.

He survived, he doesnt know how, or why...

He said there were alot of families in their home when the fires came through that did not get out...

Everything is gone,

he said it was 5 hours before they got anyone in there to help, he is on vital heart medication, was rescued just in time to get the medication.


Another of my aunts' works for the company that destributes power around victoria, she was called in to help manage the power during the fires. She said, they were watching all the fires, one minute it was 20kms from King Lake, they looked up a minute later, and it was there. she said there was no way any one could have warned them, it was so quick.




My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this terrible tragedy.

[Mahjong]

It's just been annouced on Channel 9 that they have asked the public to stop donating goods as it's clogging the relief areas and shelters.

Great to see that Australian's are giving the shirts off their backs to help another though :thumbsup:

They have asked for $$$ donations to get as much money into the system as possible.

[WorkingClassMum]

It's just been annouced on Channel 9 that they have asked the public to stop donating goods as it's clogging the relief areas and shelters.

Great to see that Australian's are giving the shirts off their backs to help another though :thumbsup:

They have asked for $$$ donations to get as much money into the system as possible.

And blood too.

Not everyone can donate blood, but to all that can, please please do :thumbsup:

[Chunkydunks]

I wish I could donate blood.

This is a horrifying situation. hearing how the fires raced so quickly and how people just didn't have any warning.

[bubbleyblossom]

Some blood banks are having to turn people away! Wow good on Australia!!!
Theres another fire near me, I hope they catch it

[shockinamillion]

I am going to be running a Second Life fundraising event for the next few days. I am getting some of my american friends to donate and it will ALL the going to the Red Cross. Anyone on Second life that wants to participate IM me and I will let you know when and where in the next few days.

[Shananaaah]

One small speck of happiness - Skynews have just said the death toll currently stands at 107 not 108 - I know its not much but a family somewhere is happy that one person has been found NOT dead.

I know it will go up again, but I'm glad SOMEONE has been found.

[Mischief]

One small speck of happiness - Skynews have just said the death toll currently stands at 107 not 108 - I know its not much but a family somewhere is happy that one person has been found NOT dead.

I know it will go up again, but I'm glad SOMEONE has been found.
:iagree:

Oh my god! Its soooo horrible. There just is nothing to describe it. :crying:

[Out To Pasture]

Some blood banks are having to turn people away! Wow good on Australia!!!
Theres another fire near me, I hope they catch it

:eek: Where abouts is that one? You really are in a dangerous area!

[bubbleyblossom]

Narre Warren North has another fire, a bit away from me
And Im scared the Bunyip one will go towards Gembrook and if it does, lets just say I better run

[2girls&1boy]

I have been watching the coverage on the fires and I am so absolutely horrified that these may have been a result of a person lighting them on purpose.

I am so sad :( and my heart goes out to anyone that is involved directly, has relatives that are, the firefighters, the medical teams that are helping the injured and everyone else in the area of these fires. My prayers are with them all and I will be donating as much $$$ as I can when they hold the Telethon on 9 on Thursday. This is a very dark time for Australia but it is so nice to see that in these times Australians do come to the aid of others and help out as much as they can.

Also - was anyone watching Sunrise this morning?? There was a man that was searching for his wife & 3 kids that were near Kingslake I think?? His name was Sam. I was in tears listening to him and I wondered if they had an update on the show about him and his family. I have been thinking about him all morning.

[Out To Pasture]

Narre Warren North has another fire, a bit away from me
And Im scared the Bunyip one will go towards Gembrook and if it does, lets just say I better run


Have you got an evac plan? Somewhere you can go if need be

[bubbleyblossom]

Im home alone, without a license, but there is a car with keys, so stuff the law I'd drive out if I had to!
Id just drive to wherever I could if something happened, MIL is 5mins away so she'd be here, we're still packed from Saturday so I can grab stuff and go

[bubbleyblossom]

Another low chopper going over

[Out To Pasture]

Another low chopper going over


I saw one of the water copters fly past Eastland, the ones that have the big hoses.

[LizzardLover]

Im home alone, without a license, but there is a car with keys, so stuff the law I'd drive out if I had to!
Id just drive to wherever I could if something happened, MIL is 5mins away so she'd be here, we're still packed from Saturday so I can grab stuff and go

isnt it scary to even think of such things? I'm in Narre and I had two bags packed on Saturday incase I had to leave.

We had burnt leaves falling on my house :( I didnt sleep that night.

[bubbleyblossom]

I saw one of them earlier as well
Geez I hope everyone is okay

[bubbleyblossom]

isnt it scary to even think of such things? I'm in Narre and I had two bags packed on Saturday incase I had to leave.

We had burnt leaves falling on my house :( I didnt sleep that night.
It is scary as hell because of what is going through my head... I didnt sleep Saturday night either was too worried, had ash and burning leaves here and the fires were nearer to you than me! I will be okay, we will all be okay, just need to be vigalent

[Out To Pasture]

Im home alone, without a license, but there is a car with keys, so stuff the law I'd drive out if I had to!
Id just drive to wherever I could if something happened, MIL is 5mins away so she'd be here, we're still packed from Saturday so I can grab stuff and go


isnt it scary to even think of such things? I'm in Narre and I had two bags packed on Saturday incase I had to leave.

We had burnt leaves falling on my house :( I didnt sleep that night.

It's terrifying to think about, I don't live as close to the danger as you guys, but I already got myself thinking on where I'd go, sadly because all my family are up that way, they are more likely to come to me if need be. I really don't have anywhere to stay or run to if it got to that.

[Chunkydunks]

i think i just heard them say the death toll is 115. I wasn't fully listening so I could be wrong.

[bubbleyblossom]

I just heard 116 :(

[Chunkydunks]

watching question time and hearing some of the stories. Its so hard to listen to. I couldn't imagine living through it.

[jaydensmum]

Thats so sad!!! :(Hopefully the numbers dont keep going up, its such a tragedy!! :( I feel soo sorry for those poor people in VIC. :hugs:Hopefully they catch the ******** that did this and make them pay big time!! :mad:

[Love is all you need]

Mimmi :hugs: I hope everyone near is okay....
Bubbly don't hesitate to go and am glad you are stuffing the law I would too, :fingerscrossed: it doesn't come any closer!
Chunky it is so hard to hear the stories :crying:

Mimmi I was the same I started thinking bout what we would do, (we're over the other side of vic) and we have a 2 min bolt to the ocean we are so lucky but a few nature tree reserves in the way....

Well s2b MIL and FIL went away today and BIL got their coin bowl and cashed it in, all the money was then donated to the cause, SIL & BIL are also donating money and are organising a fundraiser too locally, as they are a smaller distance to king lake than what Whittlesea is they were just lucky the wind was the other direction.

[bubbleyblossom]

128 now :(

[Chunkydunks]

Does anyone know if wangaratta is under any threat?

[bubbleyblossom]

I havent heard anything about Wangaratta Kirsty, will let you know if I do.
Can you turn on ABC radio? That is the best thing you can do

[Chunkydunks]

The only radio i have is in the car unfortunately and we're on dial up speed so can't listen online.

[bubbleyblossom]

I have it on here, so if I hear anything will post straight away

[WorkingClassMum]

Marysville has been declared a Crime Scene - and the police advise there are still bodies yet to be recovered. :crying:

This means that it was arson. :banghead:

This means that someone intentionally did this. :banghead:

[bubbleyblossom]

Whoever lit these bloody fires needs to be executed in the most inhumane way possible. I do not want my tax dollars paying for them to have a cosy life in jail!

[Chunkydunks]

And its been stated that if it is found to be arson the person/people will be charged with murder as a mark of respect to the people killed. There was also a journalist who flew over Marysville and said there were body on laying on the ground:gloomy:

[bubbleyblossom]

That is terrible!
As I just said somewhere else, whoever lit these fires needs to be executed, no life for them after they took 126!

[bubbleyblossom]

My mum just said that there are still sickos lighting fires in Gippsland. A friend has been asked to be on the lookout for suspicious people as they lit their fence on fire!

And just around the corner from me someone lit a fire in the scrub near the Emerald Golf Course!!! What is wrong with these people???

[Love is all you need]

:crying: and reading the age a firefighter was going through cars and had bodies dropping out when he opened the doors :crying:

[Love is all you need]

yeah BB I just saw that and was about to post on it, I can't believe there are sickos like that in this world.....

[bubbleyblossom]

There are so many people that will need intense councelling after this!

[Love is all you need]

yeah and also the 000 centres as a lot where taking calls from people caught asking for assistance and what to do

Also just heard that this Friday Coles will donate all profits to the bushfire appeal so if you can save your grocery shopping till then!!!

[bubbleyblossom]

I will do my shopping at Coles on Friday... Will tell everyone to do the same

[Chunkydunks]

Well Friday's payday so I'll be doing a big shop then. I'll make sure of this because really its the only way I can help.

[Love is all you need]

:crying: 126 :crying:

[logiesmummy]

The news has just stated 130 dead.

[bronny-jane]

There was a man that was searching for his wife & 3 kids that were near Kingslake I think?? His name was Sam. I was in tears listening to him and I wondered if they had an update on the show about him and his family. I have been thinking about him all morning.

yeah they updated that on the show, his neighbours told him that his wife and kids went back into the house for shelter... but the house burnt down.. so looks like they all died..:( .. mel was in tears saying it

[bubbleyblossom]

OMG that is so terrible
That poor, poor family

[WorkingClassMum]

The death toll is expected to be above 200.

The army is now on the fire front

This is becoming more and more awful

Beechworth and Yackandandah is still out of control, and the Bendigo fire has flared up again.

[~Temet Nosce~]

F$^king hell.

[logiesmummy]

And there is a concern because tomorrow there is supposed to be strong winds.

[Love is all you need]

Unfortunately there has going to be so many other stories like the one we heard this morning on Sunrise, it's the worst "natural" disaster in our state, three times more deaths expected than Ash Wednesday and Black Friday. I just feel so numb.

[Lozie]

oh gosh i cant fathom what some of these people are going thru! :crying::hissy::banghead: :hugs::hugs::hugs:

[Jakois]

All we can do is hope and pray now that there will be no more lives lost:(.

[Love is all you need]

At this stage Beechworths weather should be cooler and the winds will die down according to the weather channel online...

[bubbleyblossom]

The fire at Churchill has broken containment lines, Wonron and Yarram are under threat

Tidal River is getting worse as well, thats my Christmas holiday spot every year!

[bronny-jane]

so devastating isnt it, puts everything into prospective;)

[Love is all you need]

oh cr@p...I hope the cool breezes we are experiencing get to the regions, looking over all the winds should be SE / SW which hopefully will help and the middle of the week looks cooler, the weekend starts to heat up again but nothing like last weekend.

BJ it puts so much into perspective...

[naiwen]

Just saw something on TV that I thought was important to repeat here.

Anna Blyth (or however you spell it lol) asked for people who are not affected by the bushfires to try to avoid calling centerlink for a couple of days if they can so that the operators can be free to talk to the bushfire suvivors and get their payments through.

Probably applies more to VIC but still worth mentioning I thought.

[bubbleyblossom]

Thats why I didnt call today, even though I need to
Headed in today instead (important)

[Jakois]

Just saw something on TV that I thought was important to repeat here.

Anna Blyth (or however you spell it lol) asked for people who are not affected by the bushfires to try to avoid calling centerlink for a couple of days if they can so that the operators can be free to talk to the bushfire suvivors and get their payments through.

Probably applies more to VIC but still worth mentioning I thought.

Yes I heard that as well.
I think it is nation wide, as calls to call centres aren't directed to the state you are calling from, but just to the next available operator.

[Lily_Pad]

my friend just told me her friends parents died in the fire.
my friend lives in melbourne but her whole family is in myrtleford. i am so scared for them. does anyone know if the beechworth fire is heading towards there?
and now there is a fire in frankston near my aunty.

i just cant fathom how all the people in the line of fire are feeling at the moment. it has gotten so unbelievably huge. i doubt there will be many people in the whole of victoria not affected somehow by the fires. my heart goes out to all those people who have lost homes, loved ones, pets... i wish there was more i could do than donate money. :(

[Jakois]

my friend just told me her friends parents died in the fire.
my friend lives in melbourne but her whole family is in myrtleford. i am so scared for them. does anyone know if the beechworth fire is heading towards there?
and now there is a fire in frankston near my aunty.

i just cant fathom how all the people in the line of fire are feeling at the moment. it has gotten so unbelievably huge. i doubt there will be many people in the whole of victoria not affected somehow by the fires. my heart goes out to all those people who have lost homes, loved ones, pets... i wish there was more i could do than donate money. :(

From my understanding, Myrtleford is not at threat at the moment.
I have family there as well so am trying to keep up to date.

[Lily_Pad]

From my understanding, Myrtleford is not at threat at the moment.
I have family there as well so am trying to keep up to date.

thanks jakois.
:fingerscrossed: that your family stays safe. and that the fire calms down.

[Shananaaah]

Marysville has just been declared an official crime scene as they are quite sure it was an intentional arson attempt.

And 130 death toll just updated.

Sorry - just saw that this has already been mentioned.

[Shananaaah]

I don't know if this has been posted before, but this is a website that is apparently being streamed direct from the CFA site to lessen the traffic on the CFA website.

http://mapvisage.appspot.com/fires/FireMap.html (http://mapvisage.appspot.com/fires/FireMap.html)

[Zoey]

I was receiving calls from victoria today.... absolutely horrible. It was really upsetting :(
Also had love ones calling as they couldn't get through to relatives in victoria... can't imagine how those closely affected by this are coping.

Thoughts are with all those who are affected.

[bgbgbb]

I grew up in one of the areas in Gippsland that has had loss of lives and properties. My Dad's property came only 50 metres from the fires on Saturday before the winds changed.

I thought I could give blankets and clothes, but I did a big cull just before Christmas so there's nothing left over.

So I'm giving blood tomorrow. I've booked in and I'm terrified!!:( I get nauseous at the sight of needles and have often passed out when they took blood from me for reasons in the past, but thinking of those poor people suffering in hospitals with unimagineable burns, needing blood that I have in abundance, quite overrides my needle aversions.

[Luna Lovegood]

:hugs: to everyone who has family in Vic, and who lives in Vic.

I can't imagine the fear of waiting to be evacuated, the fear of losing your home, and family and the fear of not being able to find you loved ones.

I hope that there is some relief from the horror of these fires soon.

[MummyDaddy]

I just registered to donate blood ... if I could I would volunteer my time ... they have said that whilst they have enough blood now they are going to need more in the future to help the burns patients as many things can be made from blood to help them ... I donated some money too. If I could have people in my home I would ... I wish I had a bigger place, I even thought of putting baby in with me and letting someone have my babies room. If they get desperate I will do this.

I'm so sad for all the families - I drive through there regularly to visit my family. This could so easily happen to friends I know who live in the country.

It's just devastating - it makes petty grievances in our lives seem so silly and insignificant when you see innocent people lose everything through no fault of there own.

Prayers for the victims ... prayers for all of them.

[MyFourCubs]

Yes I heard that as well.
I think it is nation wide, as calls to call centres aren't directed to the state you are calling from, but just to the next available operator.

Yes it is nation wide, I am in NSW and often speak to customer service people (from Centrelink) in Brisbane or Melbourne. Good idea, thanks Naiwen.

It's all just so horrific I can't fathom it... just want to help in any way I can. Can hardly watch the news through the tears.:(

My thoughts and prayers for all of you in Victoria and for all others affected by this tragedy.:hugs:

We have rain, here. dear God please send some your way..........

[EmPowering]

my friend just told me her friends parents died in the fire.
my friend lives in melbourne but her whole family is in myrtleford. i am so scared for them. does anyone know if the beechworth fire is heading towards there?
and now there is a fire in frankston near my aunty.

i just cant fathom how all the people in the line of fire are feeling at the moment. it has gotten so unbelievably huge. i doubt there will be many people in the whole of victoria not affected somehow by the fires. my heart goes out to all those people who have lost homes, loved ones, pets... i wish there was more i could do than donate money. :(
is there a fire in frankston:eek::eek: all my friends live there.

[Lily_Pad]

there was earlier today, but i think it was small and under control now... its not listed on the cfa website anymore.

[ladybugblue84]

My heart goes out to anyone affected by this absolute tragedy :no: it's completely devastating...

[jag5000]

I haven't been able to write anything so far today. I have been far too choked up. My MIL is a physiologist and has been there (now in Whittlesea) since Saturday. Everytime I have spoken to her she cannot believe the tragedy that she is seeing. I'm possibly going tomorrow do anything I can her and the other workers (probably paperwork kind of stuff). I have an appointment to donate blood next week. I wish there was more I could do.. I know nothing will really help those affected but I just feel so helpless and sad. I have been smelling the smoke for days now and can't think of much else. I have a friend in Kinglake and I have not heard anything of her, her DH and their 10 kids. DH and I have been giving the kids and each other extra hugs and realising just how lucky we are. :(

[WorkingClassMum]

The death toll is now 173. :crying:

It is still expected to rise. :crying:

[Out To Pasture]

We have rain, here. dear God please send some your way..........


Forecast says we wont have rain for a least another week. And they can't tell us if it will be enough to help put out the fires. I hope it's fricken monsoon!

[~Temet Nosce~]

The death toll is now 173. :crying:

It is still expected to rise. :crying:
oh far out.. I am dreading getting up each morning to see that toll go up and up.. :(

[Miaow]

Found out yesterday one of my friends was on the edge of the Kinglake fire - luckily her house is ok but everything around the house is black - hit them so fast they had to decide to run or stay most stayed and protected their houses :(

So sad all these deaths and destruction - the stories on the news are so heartbreaking :(

[hailsntwang]

we tried calling my uncle last night (who lives in Three Bridges), to make sure he was ok.

He picked up the phone, shouted down the phone "can't talk, it's coming, The fire is coming! gotta go" and hung up.

I don't know if mum has been able to get back in contact with him.

I've tried looking for Three Bridges on the cfa and dse website but can't find it.

If anybody knows anything, pls forward it on to me

[Izy]

We cracked the american news today. Hopefully that means they might send help soon.

If anyone wants to donate blood they recommend you wait a week or two as blood has limited shelf life and they will need ongoing supplies for burns etc...

Bubbelyblossom and everyone in Vic- all my love and hope. Stay safe.

Pegs I'm thinking of you and your friends as I am for you too Jag. I hope your friend, her husband and children are found safe.

Miaow- I am so glad your friend is safe.
Good Luck hailsntwang

[~Temet Nosce~]

We cracked the american news today. Hopefully that means they might send help soon.

I thought it would have been all over their news already :confused: about time, cmon we helped you now you can help us..

Hails I hope your uncle is ok.

[hailsntwang]

Still no word but if it's not reported on tv then i'm assuming he's ok.

Phones are probably down so he cant' get in contact yet.

He is surrounded by state forest so either way he's pretty close to the action.

Will update as soon as i know

[bubbleyblossom]

Bubbelyblossom and everyone in Vic- all my love and hope. Stay safe.


Thankyou Izy. I am safe now, we had a meeting in Gembrook last night and if the fire is not under control in 5-6 days, the wind change may push it towards us, so I really need you all to be thinking positive. I dont want to lose my house :(

I hope everyone is safe and sound

[3blue&1pink]

Sorry if I have put this in the wrong spot.. but wanted to share this cute pic!

http://11.media.tumblr.com/n9aJ9KYaejrh7h9c4eRDRH0To1_500.png

[2girls&1boy]

That is a very cute picture indeed :yes:

Amazing isn't it that that brave firefighter who cares so much for humans and has so much compassion for an animal and yet the animal that lit these fires has none at all. :confused:

[Chunkydunks]

That's just amazing. You could imagine how scared that koala would have been and for it to let the guy right up to it like that.

[WorkingClassMum]

Our other house in Healesville came under ember attack today when the Healesville fire flared up.

We have offered to the single mummy and her two kids to come and stay here for as long as she needs.

[srguitargirl]

that photo just shows how kind humans can be and how thankful animals are so precious.

I hope everyone is staying safe and that everyone gets the help they need to start rebuilding there lives.

[Out To Pasture]

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,,6477470,00.jpg

[srguitargirl]

awe that is just gorgeous and must lift the spirits of the fireys too

[Izy]

WCM you are a true angel. I hope she takes you up on the offer :hugs:

Those pics are amazing. Those poor firefighters... the things they have to see :crying:

[Chunkydunks]

181:crying:

[nsmonkey]

Its just so devastating. :(

[Love is all you need]

:crying:
I heard they are close to getting one of the fire bugs, I hope they get them soon...

[nsmonkey]

Hopefully they do get them.

[Ana Gram]

A family friend (and DD's god father) has been deployed to the area to assist in body identification. What a horrible job :(

[Chunkydunks]

Chellegoth I feel for your friend

WCM what a wonderful thing you are doing. I so happy to hear of people doing everything they can to help others out.

Majeevch I hope they catch em.

[adinic]

I have been so sad and down, even though I know no one in VIC I truly feel for everyone who has lost a loved one and to those of you who have lost their homes, my prayers and thoughts are with you, I hope you can somehow rebuild your lives again.

I cant get my mind off what is happening and my heart stops beating when I hear how much more people have died.

I have contacted ST Vinnies in brisbane and they have told me that I can mail directly some baby things - they really need any baby stuff. So things like nappies, formula, dummies, bottles, baby wipes, baby outfits, bibs, baby food etc. Tomorrow Im sending a package along with donating a few hundred dollars. I know times are really hard at the moment, but we have to really dig deep and donate as much as you can even if its $5 its something and every little bit will help.

If you want to send some baby stuff send too,

THE VICTORIAN DISASTER APPEAL WAREHOUSE
LOT 7 HENDERSON RD
ROWVILLE VIC 3178

I cant help not thinking about all those mums and dads that have little ones and dont have any baby wipes or enough nappies for their baby, thats why I have to send something.

Hope that everyone in VIC tries to stay safe, my thoughts are with you. :hugs:

[MyFourCubs]

It is so confusing, I was told today that the charities have specifically asked to send nothing- just money.:confused: I found that a bit peculiar as I too thought of all those bubs and children needing nappies, clothes etc etc. Anyone else heard either story??? adinic, great work, hope others follow your need, will dig around and see what I have too.

My heart is just breaking today, so utterly devestating.:crying:

Thank you thank you to those who posted the gorgeous pics, kep em coming we need them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Funkychicken]

It is a bit confusing. Some reports ask for money only and other reports are still asking for goods. I have a friend who is collecting goods and attempting to take a truckload to Kinglake. She has a work colleague stuck there at the moment.

If people have goods like disposable nappies, formula, sanitary items, then please find a way to get them there. The salvos are taking a lot of goods but if people begin to think they don't need any more goods, then they will run out very quickly.
Try calling Bunnings as I have been told they are collecting goods to go up there.

Keep trying to find a way.

[Funkychicken]

A useful radio station to stream from Victoria is 774 ABC AM. If you are out of the Vic metro zone, you won't tune it in on a radio but you should be able to stream it on your computer. They have live coverage streaming all day with fire updates, status of victims etc..

http://www.abc.net.au/melbourne/

[adinic]

It is so confusing, I was told today that the charities have specifically asked to send nothing- just money.:confused: I found that a bit peculiar as I too thought of all those bubs and children needing nappies, clothes etc etc. Anyone else heard either story??? adinic, great work, hope others follow your need, will dig around and see what I have too.

My heart is just breaking today, so utterly devestating.:crying:

Thank you thank you to those who posted the gorgeous pics, kep em coming we need them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know Ive heard the same thing, but as a mum you know you could NEVER have enough baby wipes, nappies, baby food etc so I really think they will use what is sent. The person from St Vinnies said they really need baby stuff only. Im going to send it anyway, I have to help somehow because I feel that I have too and Im in brisbane I cant really be there (would love too). Hope that helps.

[Out To Pasture]

I work for a call centre and we have been helping out with our own charities.
We have a compitition at work, that every donation is doubled by our company and sent to the Red Cross.
Also a raffle you win 100 coles myer voucher or a kitchen set with a toaster, kettle and a blender.
Every dollar you put towards it goes to the Red Cross.

We also have volunteers from work assisting with the charity and "find my family" lines. Alot of sad people came back into work today, but they say in the end, it's for the better cause.

[Izy]

goggle have set up a page with a live link to CFA and links to media releases

http://www.google.com.au/landing/victorianbushfires/

and nature pics
http://sn107w.snt107.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=4&messageId=e524440f-9e48-4f7b-85bf-e5230303bb50&Aux=4|0|8CB5A661D465800|
http://sn107w.snt107.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=3&messageId=e524440f-9e48-4f7b-85bf-e5230303bb50&Aux=4|0|8CB5A661D465800|
http://sn107w.snt107.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=2&messageId=e524440f-9e48-4f7b-85bf-e5230303bb50&Aux=4|0|8CB5A661D465800|
http://sn107w.snt107.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=1&messageId=e524440f-9e48-4f7b-85bf-e5230303bb50&Aux=4|0|8CB5A661D465800|
http://sn107w.snt107.mail.live.com/att/GetAttachment.aspx?tnail=0&messageId=e524440f-9e48-4f7b-85bf-e5230303bb50&Aux=4|0|8CB5A661D465800|

[EmPowering]

its so sad:crying: when i was at the circus last night there were red cross ladies there collecting for the bush fires, so i donated some, was amazing to see how many people did as well.

[Out To Pasture]

I was shocked to find out that Chirnside Park and Lilydale are set a light!
Apparently the one in Lilydale is contained at the one in Chirnside is small, and dangerous to the public as yet. How fricken scary.

[Ana Gram]

There is apparently a fire at Yarra Bend Park, which is near Kew. Hope they get that under control quickly.

[jag5000]

I was shocked to find out that Chirnside Park and Lilydale are set a light!
Apparently the one in Lilydale is contained at the one in Chirnside is small, and dangerous to the public as yet. How fricken scary.

where did you hear about that mimmi? I'd like to get more info on that one but I can't find anything on the cfa websites etc.. do you know anything much about it?

[Out To Pasture]

where did you hear about that mimmi? I'd like to get more info on that one but I can't find anything on the cfa websites etc.. do you know anything much about it?


At work we have a site, I am pretty sure it's the official CFA site. It keeps everyone at our work updates on affected areas, and areas with false alarms. So if need be they can call who they need to and leave early if need be.
Before I left today, Lilydale and Chirnside Park, were on the top of the list. But looking at it now, it seems to be safe at the moment.


http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/incidents/incident_summary.htm

[bubbleyblossom]

They werent necessarily "set alight", all the fires/incidents on CFA arent arson, or the same as the big fires... There were probably just incidents there hun, try not to stress

DP's car club is doing a car cruise on Sunday with a professional photographer donating his time to take photos of the cars, and all proceeds go to the bushfire appeal! All registered with Red Cross too

[~Temet Nosce~]

yeah I keep an eye out on that website every summer, especially the last few as I was out in the bush and paranoid lol. They often report things like house fires etc. too, lots of small things. Basically anything they are called out to.

[Izy]

DP's car club is doing a car cruise on Sunday with a professional photographer donating his time to take photos of the cars, and all proceeds go to the bushfire appeal! All registered with Red Cross too
My DH is a part of NS and they're doing it too

He just wishes his engine was in his car so that he could join in.:p

[nsmonkey]

Our car club is having a photo shoot on the 21st. Its a really good idea though. All proceeds ($25each) goes to the bushfire appeal.

[Out To Pasture]

They werent necessarily "set alight", all the fires/incidents on CFA arent arson, or the same as the big fires... There were probably just incidents there hun, try not to stress

DP's car club is doing a car cruise on Sunday with a professional photographer donating his time to take photos of the cars, and all proceeds go to the bushfire appeal! All registered with Red Cross too


I wasn't implying by saying 'set alight' that arsonists were to blame, I was merely saying that the areas were on fire.

[bubbleyblossom]

I wasnt meaning to sound rude hun! I'm sorry if I did!

[jag5000]

any other victorian's smelling the smoke? It's so bad tonight! I live at least a 45 min drive from the closest fires.. it's not like I'm around the corner. The whole sky is hazy.. even inside my house stinks

scary scary stuff

[MyFourCubs]

I'm not in Vic but was just watching the news and they said you guys will notice a lot of smoke because of the back burning efforts but that conditions today had been good and they were succeeding in turning some of the fires back on themselves so not to panic.
:hugs:

[Out To Pasture]

any other victorian's smelling the smoke? It's so bad tonight! I live at least a 45 min drive from the closest fires.. it's not like I'm around the corner. The whole sky is hazy.. even inside my house stinks

scary scary stuff


Yep I smelt it all the way to work, in Box Hill.
Came back and the smoke only got thicker and more intense, my house smells of smoke, I can't seem to get away from it.
My Asthma is really beginning to get to me. I haven't had to use ventolin in months!

[~Temet Nosce~]

any other victorian's smelling the smoke? It's so bad tonight! I live at least a 45 min drive from the closest fires.. it's not like I'm around the corner. The whole sky is hazy.. even inside my house stinks

scary scary stuff
yeah its been like that all day yesterday here. My eyes and lungs were sore just from walking 20 mins in it yuck. Hate to think how others closer to the fires are feeling.

[bubbleyblossom]

The whole house reaks of smoke here makingme sick :(

[~Temet Nosce~]

check out this photo of the moon I took last night, it was blood red (rather fitting for friday the 13th :laughing:) crappy quality because my camera doesn't zoom in well though http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd221/feuer_engel/IMGP2420-1.jpg thats from the smoke and haze.

[Izy]

Truely amazing and beautiful amethyst

[bgbgbb]

Before they send these arsonists to jail I'd like them to come around to every house that has had smoke haze (which is half of Victoria) and clean our windows, dust down all the soot from our indoor surfaces and clean out our air conditioning vents!:hair:

[our little treasures]

It is so confusing, I was told today that the charities have specifically asked to send nothing- just money.:confused: I found that a bit peculiar as I too thought of all those bubs and children needing nappies, clothes etc etc. Anyone else heard either story??? adinic, great work, hope others follow your need, will dig around and see what I have too.

My heart is just breaking today, so utterly devestating.:crying:

Thank you thank you to those who posted the gorgeous pics, kep em coming we need them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I think it is great the red cross has set up an appeal, however I do think that money will take a while to be given to the people in need.

A few people I have chatted with are getting annoyed with how rude some people are being with the donations.

1. in particular was channel nines concert when a guy was announcing who had donated. He mentioned a large amount and then said he wouldn't mentione the next one as it wasn't as good as the 3rd donation he had to read out. My hubby and I just looked at each other. I think how inconsiderate when it was probably someone who is going without to donate that amount!!

2. Was a lady rang a radio station offering a round up of her 3 childrens stuff and they basically humiliated her on air and told her they really needed cash.

I donated a lot of clothes and a few of my friends rounded up toys and other things. We also purchased personal items to send up. Now it's as if it wasn't good enough. IYKWIM.


We know a few who have lost their houses and 1 couple in particular were at the supermarket trying to work out what cleaning product to get as they couldn't get both. Then they mentioned that they will have to go to the salvos.. Right now they shouldn't be worried about shopping!!! My hubby didn't know what to say:(

[bgbgbb]

I know where you're coming from. I've heard the same heartless comments on tv and radio.

Then 2 minutes later they're pleading that they need more towels, more baby clothes, etc. We damned if we do and damned if we dont.

What annoys me most is that I'm sure the victims of this bushfire would be grateful for anything. These spokespeople have no right to be judging others.

I'm still to go through my baby clothes as I want to make sure what they get its washed and in good condition.

[WorkingClassMum]

My Nanna is devestated - her cousin has died in Marysville. I met the Len a few times and he was nice enough, but he and my Nanna where close and spoke regulary on the phone.

The good news is my step-sister who's estranged from the family has finally contacted her father to say she's ok - she left Marysville early enough - but her car's paintwork is blistered and the indicators melted.

My Uncle-in-law and has lost his house and all their dogs.

[our little treasures]

I know where you're coming from. I've heard the same heartless comments on tv and radio.

Then 2 minutes later they're pleading that they need more towels, more baby clothes, etc. We damned if we do and damned if we dont.

What annoys me most is that I'm sure the victims of this bushfire would be grateful for anything. These spokespeople have no right to be judging others.

I'm still to go through my baby clothes as I want to make sure what they get its washed and in good condition.

Oh yeah that's a great idea. I know they are probably getting others trash and I do think that is wrong. Where I dropped off they checked the items and were very happy that I had taken the time to rewash, fold and clearly mark the boxes, so there must be a lot just offloading stuff.

I also agree that most the victims of this disaster would be so very happy for any help they can get:yes:

[our little treasures]

My Nanna is devestated - her cousin has died in Marysville. I met the Len a few times and he was nice enough, but he and my Nanna where close and spoke regulary on the phone.

The good news is my step-sister who's estranged from the family has finally contacted her father to say she's ok - she left Marysville early enough - but her car's paintwork is blistered and the indicators melted.

My Uncle-in-law and has lost his house and all their dogs.

Oh some good and bad news there!! I am glad your step sister is safe, you must have been having a few sleepless nights:hugs:

[Chunkydunks]

:hugs::hugs::hugs: to you and your family WCM.

I was talking to my brother last night and a friend of his works for the volunteer fire service in Canberra. He's one of the unlucky ones who's had to go down sifting through houses. When his wife rang him to see how he was he couldn't even talk. This is a man who I've met on many occasions and is usually very social and outgoing. I'd hate to think what these guys are having to see:crying: No wonder its sending him into shock.

[jag5000]

does anyone know any details about the fire that has broken out in the dandenong ranges? I know it's in belgrave, tecoma kind of area. I'm hearing the water helicopter things fly over my house and can see a lot of smoke. I have a lot of friends in that area and here are a few hubbers up there too. Sweetsugardumplin' is one that I am worried about.

[Out To Pasture]

does anyone know any details about the fire that has broken out in the dandenong ranges? I know it's in belgrave, tecoma kind of area. I'm hearing the water helicopter things fly over my house and can see a lot of smoke. I have a lot of friends in that area and here are a few hubbers up there too. Sweetsugardumplin' is one that I am worried about.

Wow that's the first I have heard of it!

[Ana Gram]

Yes, there is a fire up there. There is nothing on the CFA site as yet though.

[Love is all you need]

There is one on Observatory Road in Mount Dandenong (but it says other, safe and small fire), but hadn't read anything about the belgrave one yet except for hearing about it on the news tonight.

[jag5000]

it's been downgraded now. thankfully. Gosh, scary! there just seems to be more and more fires. Or perhaps because of the big disaster people are just more aware of them? hmm..

the CFA got 2 water helicopters in there very quickly and got it under control. Once again... good on the CFA!! :yelclap:


Downgrade Message - Urgent Threat to Alert -Tecoma Terry's Ave, Fire - 7:45pm

Downgrade Message - Urgent Threat to Alert for Terry's Ave to Sandells Road, Tecoma
15/02/2009
Incident Information
The grass and scrub fire, burning near Terry's Ave and Sandells Road, Tecoma, near Belgrave (Melway Map reference 75 E6) is not currently posing a threat. The communities of Ferny Creek, Sherbrooke, Kallista, Tecoma & Belgrave are no longer under direct threat from this fire, but still need to remain alert due to the continued fire activity still in the area.
Core Advice


People in the area need to remain alert as there may not be a warning should conditions change unexpectedly. Continue to listen to ABC or local radio for updates on this fire.
Keep patrolling for embers around your property.
Be aware of residual burning after the main fire front has passed - remember logs and trees may continue to burn or smoulder for a number of days.
Watch out for hazards when walking around burnt areas. There may be sharp objects and areas that are still very hot and capable of causing serious burns.
Road use in the area will still be extremely hazardous due to low visibility from smoke. Watch out for fallen trees, power lines, abandoned cars, wildlife and emergency services vehicles.
Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Additional Information


Tourists are advised to avoid the following areas: Tecoma and Belgrave



Road closures currently in place:


For Road Closures please check the VicRoads website at www.vicroads.vic.gov.au (http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/)


Resources committed to this fire are:


22 trucks, 1 dozer, 135 personnel

[bubbleyblossom]

It was very lucky they caught that one Jo, not too far from me

[Chunkydunks]

The death toll is now officially 200

[Ana Gram]

It's going to go quite a bit higher unfortunately.

[Out To Pasture]

It's going to go quite a bit higher unfortunately.


sad but true :(

[bAaM]

How devestating, I am praying all or beautiful hubbers that have not been able to get on line to let us know if there ok are safe and ok. I just cant fathem all this, it breaks my heart, I wish i could have them all here and cuddle all those who have lost everything just so they have food and a bedroom and love.

I cry everytime i see it on TV its just SO real and heartbreaking, its like something you see in the movies its not ment to happen to helpless ppl and animals and children.

When i opened the sunday mail last weekend and saw the pictures of the kids that have lost there lives i sobbed and my DD kissed ever single one of there photos:(

Please please stay safe hubbers.:hugs:

[bubbleyblossom]

A firefighter was killed last night :( a tree fell on him
My thoughts are with his family right now, may you rest in peace a true hero