It’s difficult to remember, given the national tragedy of the last 48 hours, just how commonplace infernos such as the one in Victroria are to the Australian bush. To a large extent, they are part of the ‘pull and push’ aspect of natural ecosystems. They have happened before and they will happen again.
That sentiment however will not erase or lessen the momentus impact this disaster - currently being touted internationally as Australia’s worst – will have, both from loss of life and property. Like all tragedies of this magnitude, it brings out both the best and worse in us.
The best – total strangers giving of their all to protect, defend and safeguard the wellbeing to people they barely even know.
The worst – cruel opportunists who are nothing more than cold blooded murderers, whose sick need for a twisted thrill consumes not only precious resources, but lives , memories and futures.
The ash has barely settled but the repercussions from the last 48 hours will be with this nation for a long time to come.
