A volunteer firefighter's home goes up in flames while he bravely battles the devastating bushfires in Victoria. This story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our firefighters.
Michael Harper, a dedicated volunteer, had been tirelessly fighting fires for over 24 hours when he received the devastating news that his own home was under threat. Deployed as part of a strike team, he had been on the front lines, battling blazes across central Victoria.
While fighting a fire on Maroondah Highway, Michael was instructed to return to his hometown, Alexandra, to defend it from the approaching Longwood fire. Little did he know, his own home was in the path of destruction.
Upon returning, Michael's team, including a young volunteer and the Murrindindi Shire Council Mayor, Damien Gallagher, discovered that Cr Gallagher's house had miraculously survived. However, over the radio, they heard the devastating news that Michael's property had been lost due to the danger posed by gas bottles.
"I realized at that moment it was my house," Michael recalled.
As he arrived at the street, Michael jumped out of the truck, speechless. Cr Gallagher described the moment as one of initial deflation, but Michael's response was inspiring. He immediately began providing water to the extra crew who had arrived, showcasing his resilience and dedication.
"He said, 'That's okay, I can't change it.' It's a choice, isn't it? You can wallow in self-pity, but there's work to be done," Michael shared.
Cr Gallagher, who had spent the last 24 hours defending fires alongside Michael, knew it was time to take him back to the fire station. They had battled fires in Ruffy and Terip Terip, and faced an intense blaze on Maroondah Highway.
"We were trying to bandage a brain injury," Michael described the fire on Maroondah.
Despite being exhausted, Michael was determined to continue. He returned to the fire station and said, "Mate, let's go again."
The team was quickly deployed to defend a farm in Acheron, and Michael's dedication was evident.
"That's just who he is," Cr Gallagher said.
Michael had left his home in a rush to respond to the fires south of Longwood. He had no time to pack, but he knew the risks of living in a fire-prone area.
"We always knew we were in a high-risk area, and we understood that we wouldn't be there to defend our home. We're part of the fire brigade, and we accept these realities," Michael explained.
Being part of the strike team and working alongside capable individuals was exhilarating for Michael. He described the experience as adrenaline-fueled and immensely rewarding.
Cr Gallagher praised Michael's driving skills, especially in harsh conditions. "He was driving through fire with zero visibility. It was incredible what he achieved," Cr Gallagher said.
While convoying between Yarck and Merton, Michael's team saved homes and lives. Michael's contribution was invaluable.
"Michael was a crucial part of our success," Cr Gallagher added.
Unfortunately, Michael was not the only volunteer firefighter to lose their home in Alexandra. Cr Gallagher shared that there were several similar stories, but these volunteers continued to fight the fires with determination.
"Their resilience is inexplicable, and I commend each and every volunteer for their selflessness," Cr Gallagher said.
For the latest fire warnings and information in Victoria, visit the VicEmergency website (https://emergency.vic.gov.au/).
