Last week’s bushfire at Abermain and Neath was eerily similar to the blaze that wrought havoc near South Cessnock, Aberdare and Kearsley just six weeks before.
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Both fires burned through more than 1000 hectares over two days in high temperatures and strong winds, and miraculously, no homes were lost.
To think that both blazes are believed to have been deliberately lit is – frankly – sickening.
The most recent blaze could have resulted in a tragic Christmas for hundreds of residents around Abermain and Neath.
But yet again, firefighters came from near and far to protect our people and properties – and not one home was lost.
The local community rallied in turn, providing food, drinks and ice for the firefighters as the battled the blaze in temperatures reaching the high thirties.
After two harrowing days, Thursday’s rain brought much-welcomed relief for firefighters and residents.
But the news that police believed the fire was deliberately lit sparked outrage.
The reckless, cowardly act endangered the lives of hundreds of nearby residents, and also the men and women who put their lives on the line to battle the fire.
On a happier note, after spending much of last week battling the bushfires, many local fire brigades have turned their attention to the good old Christmas tradition – the Santa lolly run.
The sound of sirens was met with joy, rather than fear, in neighbourhoods around the city of Cessnock as fire trucks made their way around town with Santa Claus on board, passing lollies out children.
Let’s hope a safe and quiet Christmas period awaits all local firefighters, police and emergency services personnel – they surely deserve it for the hard work they do all year.
These people give so much to protect our local communities – it’s up to us to be responsible human beings and try to ease the burden.
So if you’re heading off for the holidays, take care on the roads, and be careful on the water, too.
Most of all, think of others this holiday season – if you can afford a spare gift or donation for a Christmas appeal near you, please consider it.
The Advertiser would like to thank all of our readers and customers for their support in 2016 and wishes everyone a safe and happy Christmas and a prosperous new year.