Thank you to all those who have emailed or twittered asking about our safety in the presence of the worst natural disaster to hit Australia, the bushfires in my home state of Victoria.
The map below from the Department of Sustainability and Environment shows the extent of the fires ~ we live in a suburb of Melbourne.
We are okay and quite safe at this point, the closest fire burning today in Healesville, an hour to the north east of us. However, that does not make us immune to the immense suffering being experienced by those in the direct path of the fires. 173 people have lost their lives and that number is expected to rise, thousands have been left with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. This is what they will return to.
(Picture: Fiona Hamilton/ courtesy Channel 7 helicopter)
Many people have not heard from friends or relatives since all communication was cut on Friday and Saturday. Please pray for those who wait for news that for some will be devastating.
Your love and care is so appreciated.
February 9, 2009 at 11:11 pm
What a tragedy. Praying for your country. A prisoner of hope,Megan DiMaria
February 10, 2009 at 12:26 am
Thanks for the map and details of exactly what is going on,also how to pray for you and others. I am deeply moved and saddened for your people. I am with you in spirit.Nora
February 10, 2009 at 4:50 am
Continuing to pray.
February 10, 2009 at 3:26 pm
Rel, I’ve heard bits and pieces about this on the news. Thank God you and your family are safe! We often get fires here in California and I know how devastating they can be. What a tragedy. I will pray for your entire country and for continued safety for you and your family!
February 10, 2009 at 5:49 pm
When I heard of this on the news I immediately thought about YOU! I am glad you and your family have not been effected. I will and have been praying for those who have. Thanks for the map and update. Pryaing for safety and for the fires to end soon! How tragic!
February 10, 2009 at 10:34 pm
Praying for you guys.Is there a place that we can make donations for the families that have lost so much?
February 12, 2009 at 6:09 am
Thanks for posting the map i can see my town just over the border in SA (Naracoorte)Like you Rel its not in my area but I too have felt for the victims.We are organizing supplies here to go to the affected areas and I have a large suitcase of towels, toiletries etc ready to be picked up tonight. I wish I could do more.
February 13, 2009 at 1:47 am
Thank you so much for all your love and support. Please keep praying – the losses are enormous.
Dawn – donations can be made through the Australian Red Cross
https://www.redcross.org.au/Donations/onlineDonations.asp