Monday 9 February 2009

There but for the grace of God...

Victoria faces a terrible tragedy today. This weekend (and it continues even now) devastating bushfires have caused terrible loss to life and property across country Victoria. My heart goes out to all those affected - those who have lost homes and loved ones, those who have lost their livelihood and those who have fought the fires, or supported the victims. The current death toll is at 111, with authorities expecting it to rise substantially. Complete townships have been wiped out by the fire.
I could not work out how to load the code on my own blog, but a live map from the CFA RSS feed can be found on the Lifehacker blog. Donations can be given via the secure Red Cross website.
Having lived in a bushfire danger zone (I still do really, some may remember the photos I posted 2 years ago of helicopters dumping water opposite my house) and having relatives evacuated this weekend, this hits very close to home. I am working with my students on understanding and exploring this traumatic event, and I am finding it quite difficult to watch the visuals and listen to the audio we are providing for them.
My SCA group will be holding a Fighter Auction Tourney next Monday night, which will be a fun way to raise some money - are any groups you are part of planning any fundraising?

2 comments:

Barbara/myth maker said...

My prayers and best thoughts go out to all these people and the wildlife. What a tragedy!

Suzanne said...

Thanks Barbara - its hard to comprehend isn't it? The death toll has risen to 180+ and 2000 homes have been lost....