1st February 2020 / Sarah Lowry: Australia's Bushfire Crisis

The sheer scale of the Australian bushfires is difficult to comprehend, with more land burned than in the 2019 Amazon and 2018 Californian fires combined.

It has been simultaneously heartbreaking and inspiring watching the crisis unfold across the country, particularly the devastation it continues to leave behind as well as the physical, emotional, financial and environmental impact on our society.

Seeing countless volunteers risking their lives to help their fellow Aussie's has truly been inspiring. The way our country has been brought together by providing emergency relief and helping those rebuild is something we can all take comfort in.

Community driven campaigns are hoping to draw back visitors and assist businesses within affected communities. The 'Empty Esky' campaign on Instagram was launched in early January, encouraging people to go on a road trip with an empty esky in hand. While travellers should stay informed about when it is safe to visit, many areas have now re-opened and are eagerly anticipating visitors to stimulate the local economy and help these communities get back on their feet.

True Aussie spirit in action is something every Australian can be proud of.

Supporting our community through these troubled times will go a long way on the road to recovery and Fletchers is proud to be part of that. Over January, our bushfire appeal has seen our offices and team members come together to raise money for Wildlife Victoria and the Gippsland Emergency Relief Fund.

Fletchers would like to give a big thank you to our firefighters; the CFA, the Volunteer Firefighters Association and the NSW Rural Fire Service for their tireless efforts on the front lines.

Our hearts go out to all those affected.