Winter Valley family left ‘overwhelmed’ as fire tears through home

A family has been left with few salvageable possessions after a fire caused “substantial damage” to their Winter Valley home.

Simon and Nicole Jones with their children. A fire broke out at the Jones' family home in Winter Valley on Wednesday.

A Ballarat family has been left “overwhelmed” and with few possessions after a fire tore through their home just weeks before Christmas.

The Jones family, including parents Simon and Nicole, their two children, and two extended family members were unharmed when their Winter Valley house caught fire on Wednesday afternoon, but “substantial damage” was done to the property.

The areas not scorched by the flames are covered in soot and damaged by water and smoke.

The aftermath of the fire. Photo: Karen Van der Veen

“They have only been able to take out some smoke damaged clothes and a few bits and pieces, and aren’t allowed back in at this stage,” sibling Karen Van der Veen said.

“I can only imagine the devastation they must be feeling.

“Most of their possessions are gone or not salvageable.”

Inside the burnt home. Photo: Karen Van der Veen

The family is unsure what caused the fire and is staying with family for the time being.

Although they are insured, a fundraiser seeking $5000 to help Mr and Ms Jones buy food, clothing, and other necessities has been set up online.

“There’s been a lot of support from the community, which has been really, really lovely and really moving,” Ms Van der Veen told the Herald Sun.

“Their house is unliveable and for safety reasons they’re not allowed back in.”

“They’re very overwhelmed and there’s a lot to deal with. They’re still figuring it all out.”