7 February 2024

Those fires claimed the lives of 173 people, injuring more than 400 others. More than 2,000 homes were destroyed, 450,000 hectares of land were burnt, and an estimated one million animals and wildlife perished.  

We all thank the many volunteers who made up a large percentage of the 19,000 people involved in the CFA (Country Fire Authority) response, one of whom lost his life.

It's such a dangerous task and so many firefighters in Australia are volunteers, who give their time to train, turn out and protect their community.

Our thanks to all of them