The Tragic Australian Bush Fire of 2009

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There was no warning for the families in 700 homes living in the state of Victoria. The fire is described as Hell on Earth. It was the worst bush fire that Australia has ever seen. With 84 casualties already counted, this February 7 bushfire has already passed the Ash Wednesday fires of 1983 and the Black Friday fire of 1939.

The death toll is projected to pass one hundred.

It was a peaceful day on the 7th of February, the only thing that hampered the day was a great heat wave that swept the area like a plague. Little did the Victorians know that this simple heat wave, with a little help from arsonists, can cause the horrible situation that they are in right now.

The fire was rapid as it extended itself from Kilmore East, pushing 30 kilometers to Wandung, Strathewen, and Clonbinane to Kinglake. Kinglake was the refugee camp of about 200 people. 24 people died in Kinglake and Kinglake West.

Among the affected areas were Murrindindi with large fires in the Mount Despair State Forest going in and destroying most of Marysville. Witnesses also confirmed that 95% of Narbethong were destroyed in the fire.

“Tonight our resolve as Victorians is being tested,” Victorian Premier John Brumby addressed the state. “It is one of the most tragic events in Victoria’s history. I am personally devastated by the tragedy. The scale of the tragedy defies comprehension.

“We all grieve with you. So many families, families like yours and mine, now have to rebuild. I can promise that we will not stop until you are safe and your lives and communities have been rebuilt.”

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd visited the bushfire ravaged regions. He declared that there will be a $10-million relief fund as well as a multi-million-dollar appeal. He also added that the government will be behind the devastated communities. Already in deployment were the army and other defense assets.

Meanwhile, a 31-year-old Kilarney man has been arrested for lighting fires on the New South Wales central coast. In Victoria, authorities are saying that any arsonists caught will be charged with either manslaughter or murder.

As of this writing, 84 lives have been taken by the fire.

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