Cassandra Fernando (Holt, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Yesterday, we commemorated 15 years since one of Australia's worst disasters: the Black Saturday bushfires. The day 7 February 2009 is etched in our memory. It is a day that forever changed the landscape of our nation and the lives of so many. Today we remember the people whose lives were lost and their families and friends, who endured such grief. We remember the communities that were reduced to ash and the resilience and enduring spirit that defines us as Australians.

I visited Marysville with my family a few weeks after the bushfires had subsided to support the small businesses who were doing it tough in the aftermath. Their perseverance to make do and support their communities, even after such a disaster, will never be forgotten.

Finally, we remember the firefighters, volunteers and everyday heroes who courageously battled the flames, saving countless lives while they risked their own. I want to conclude by extending my gratitude to the fire service staff and volunteers in Holt—namely those at FRV Fire Station 92, Hampton Park, Narre Warren, Clyde, Devon Meadows, Tooradin and Warneet-Blind Bight Fire Brigade CFA.

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