Firefighters fought the house fire earlier this month, but were unable to save the property. Photo: Gunning – Fish River Rural Fire Brigade Facebook.
A community-led campaign is helping a Southern Tablelands family rebuild after a devastating blaze.
Firefighter Ellie Johnston said the Pollard family “lost everything” in a blaze last Wednesday (6 August).
The family was unharmed, along with their pets, but lost their possessions.
Operational officer for the NSW RFS’ Southern Tablelands district Jacob Boddy said emergency services were called to the Gunning home at about 5:30 pm, but were unable to save it.
“The first arriving crews found a structure well alight,” he said.
“By the time crews got on scene, the structure had been fully engulfed [by the blaze], which meant as a result, there was nothing that could have been saved, unfortunately.”
More than 50 firefighters combined their efforts, including a local crew and nearby RFS brigades of Dalton, Fell Mount Forest, Wallaroo and Goulburn. NSW Fire and Rescue also assisted.
Crews also returned the next day to make sure the fire was fully extinguished.
Ms Johnston, who is also a member of the Gunning RFS brigade, has organised a donation drive, where people can drop off items at the unit’s fire shed or contact the brigade to see what the family needs.
They are accepting things like toiletries and clothes, as well as toys for the young children, who are aged 10 and seven.
“I didn’t know what we were expecting … We’re not out to make a million, it’s just to rally around the family. It has been amazing.
“Everyone has been so generous. I’ve had PlayStations dropped off, clothes and books.”
Ms Johnston said a GoFundMe page was created to support the family, who were staying with relatives.
She said joining the effort to support the family was an easy decision.
“I’m a mum of four boys. Putting myself in their shoes, I’d hope someone would rally behind me and support our family.
“We live in a small community. We rally together and we support each other … Everyone’s coming together; everyone wants to know what they can do.
On Friday (15 August), Gunning Public School will host a sausage sizzle fundraiser for the family from 1 pm.
Ms Johnston encouraged people to stop by the school for a feed or make a donation. Profits will be passed on to the family.
“It’s beautiful to see our town cling together and support each other,” she said.
“It makes me feel blessed to know we live in a town that’s supporting a family in their hardest time.”
Mr Boddy also said the fire was being investigated by RFS fire investigators. A NSW Police spokesperson told Region the fire was not being treated as suspicious.
Original Article published by Claire Sams on About Regional.
