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| John Brumby, Premier of Victoria, Australia, issues a message following the recent bushfires in the region |
The fires of February 7 were like nothing we have ever seen before.
They destroyed families and communities across Victoria, and inflicted a terrible loss on us all. Many of you have lost your own homes and property. Others have lost family, friends and colleagues. All of you have been deeply affected by what you have seen and experienced.
As we continue to combat fires across the State, and in some areas start the process of rebuilding together, I want to thank you for your extraordinary contribution and self sacrifice.
I am very proud of the way you have faced this cruel and unprecedented tragedy.
Each day we have been moved as we hear more stories of your individual bravery, heroism and compassion. You have put aside your own needs to focus on the needs and suffering of our community - and I cannot commend you enough for that.
I thank your families, those loved ones who are supporting you and waiting for your safe return. I know that many of you are also self employed, on the land or in other businesses, and are generously giving up your time to help others. I also acknowledge and thank the many other employers who are again showing great understanding during this difficult time.
So far, more than 10,000 CFA members - volunteers, career firefighters and hundreds of CFA support teams - have been called into action from across Victoria. Many more of you are in reserve, performing the very important job of responding to hundreds of other daily incidents in the outer suburbs of Melbourne, regional centres and country Victoria. Others stand ready to relieve your colleagues as the fires continue and the recovery and rebuilding begins.
As a CFA member - volunteer, career firefighter or staff - you can hold your head high. You are doing an exceptional job and have already saved thousands of lives and properties in the most difficult circumstances imaginable.
As you know, Victoria continues to confront the threat of fire.
I now appeal to you to keep your resolve alongside your colleagues from DSE, Parks Victoria, MFB, SES, Victoria Police and other state and federal agencies.
I know that as a member of the CFA family you will do this, and with Victoria's and Australia's support, you will continue to show us the true meaning of community spirit."
John Brumby MP
Premier of Victoria
