Community ‘lends a hose’ to Taree fires
Owen Harper has been on the frontline ferrying water to the heart of the blaze in Marlee, just north of Taree – giving back to a small community that helped him in his own darkest days.
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Owen Harper and his wife Taycee Jones have spent countless hours this week loading up a ute and ferrying water to supplement the supplies of the Marlee fireys, north of the town.
The 33-year-old put out the call on social media this week, springing into action as his community was ravaged by multiple blazes.
He has been filling up relentlessly at the homes of those generous enough to spare a few litres and “lend a hose” for the fireys’ efforts.
Sharing his reasoning why, he reveals the personal family tragedy behind his selfless deed, and how his small community rallied behind him in his time darkest moments.
“Five years ago our sons were born at 26 weeks but we lost one – Bodie,” Mr Harper said.
“What we’ve said is we’ll give back to the community the same way they gave back to us.
“They provided us food, water, shelter when we couldn’t even get up out of bed to go shopping … “For me it’s how I give back.”
His actions exemplify the community spirit around the town of Taree, as its residents brace for hellish conditions expected to ignite the fires that have devastated the mid-north coast.
Instead of hiding and cowering, its residents are helping each other, rallying in the face of the worst natural disaster they have seen in a generation.
“It’s in recognition of our son’s life,” Mr Harper said.
“Although he is not here we can still give back.”
It is one of many stories of community spirit emerging in the region.
Schoolchildren are delivering care packages to the men and women on the front lines while community organisations like the Taree Tornadoes basketball club are offering free showers to the displaced.
Taree is facing an out of control fire to its south just over the Manning River while RFS volunteers are preparing for another hellish day just north in Marlee.