Up until February 7th 2009, the day known as Ash Wednesday (February 16th 1983) was all but the worst Bushfire Disaster to every hit Victoria. Within twelve hours, more than 180 fires fanned by winds of up to 110 km (68 mph) per hour caused widespread destruction across the states of Victoria and South Australia.Years of severe drought and extreme weather combined to create one of Australia’s worst fire days in a century.The fires are the second deadliest bushfire disaster in Australian history—only the 2009 Victorian bushfires have claimed more lives. The Ash Wednesday Fires claimed 75 lives in total (47 in Victoria) and destroyed some 2500 properties and homes. The Victorian Bushfires of 2009 have so far claimed 201 lives and destroyed 1839 homes.
Below is a Video that looks at the day known as “Hell On Earth” in comparison to Ash Wednesday. Eerily similar in nature, both days brought widespread devastation and grief to the people of Victoria.
To support those affected by the Victorian Bushfires of 2009 please follow the Red Cross link on this blog and donate whatever you can. Even if it is merely 5 dollars it will all help to rebuild the lives of those who have lost everything.
Thank you for your support during the aftermath of this horrific tragedy.
The Victorian Bushfires that destroyed the lives of thousands of fellow Aussies on February 7th 2009 were nothing short of horrific. Amongst the chaos and devastation there were 100,000 plus Volunteer Firefighters from the CFA risking their lives and fighting a Firestorm that was to become Australia’s Worst ever Bushfire and Natural Disaster. These men and women of the CFA put their lives on the line each and every year and their bravery and courage in Victoria’s Darkest hour is nothing short of outstanding. Although helpless to stop the ferocity of the Victorian Bushfires, these men and women became the only line of defence and as I write this they continue to fight fires that are still burning in Victoria.
The video below is a tribute to the spirit and courage of the Volunteers of the CFA. As an Australian and Victorian, I thank you for your tireless efforts and bravery.
Please help me pay tribute to the Heroes amongst the insanity of the Victorian Bushfires and watch the following video
Thank you for your support and be sure to donate anything you can to the Red Cross in the link provided after this post and on the front page of this blog.
My thoughts and prayers to all those affected by The Victorian Bushfires.
