Members statements- Diggers Rest fire response

Mr  J. BULL — Speaking of wonderful community work, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the outstanding, hardworking and dedicated staff and volunteers of our local emergency services — the Country Fire Authority, the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, the State Emergency Service, Victoria Police and all supporting agencies in conjunction with Emergency Services Victoria — who worked extremely hard last Saturday to protect life, property and homes as a fast-moving grassfire broke out in Diggers Rest in my electorate.

This fire burnt around 110 hectares, damaging one house and a shed. Had it not been for the rapid response of emergency services staff and the deployment of seven aircraft and over 30 appliances, this fire could have done a whole lot more damage.

I want to take the opportunity to thank and commend the emergency services staff and volunteers and the many residents who took the advice of authorities, who worked very hard to stick together and who ensured that the community was protected. Thank you.