NSW Fires 2019/2020

Double canoe

This retired couple lost their home, lost their animals and almost lost their lives during NSW bushfires

This retired couple lost their home, lost their animals and almost lost their lives during the 2019-20 NSW bushfires in the hardest hit region of Eurobodalla. They have battled mentally, emotionally and financially to slowly rebuild a shouse (shed-house), mostly by themselves, and taking one day at a time. This experience has been strenuous on their relationship as both come to terms with the loss in their own way. The one thing that has always brought them together has been the time they spend on the water, paddling their double canoe which was lost to the Black Summer bushfire. They used to paddle on the Clyde River and collect litter left by humans along the way. Their connection to the river has helped them through many challenges over the years and would go a long way to help them reconcile the challenges currently faced in the wake of the bushfires. It is a special feeling, being out on the water and this river is something this couple holds very dear to their hearts. Thank you