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Victorian bushfires: share your message of support for our heroes and communities

Messages of love and support from those touched by our bushfire crisis continue to pour in for our heroes and communities — including one from a sweet 10-year-old in the UK. Read them here and leave yours.

RAAF airmen, Victorian paramedics and CHC search and rescue helicopter crew provide assistance at RAAF Base East Sale for an elderly evacuee during Operation Bushfire Assist.
RAAF airmen, Victorian paramedics and CHC search and rescue helicopter crew provide assistance at RAAF Base East Sale for an elderly evacuee during Operation Bushfire Assist.

Australia’s bushfire crisis is affecting an unprecedented number of people, striking at the hearts of those witnessing it, both at home and abroad.

We want to share your messages of thanks and support for the brave volunteer and career fire crews, community service staff and volunteers, and the communities affected by fire.

Governor-General David Hurley visits a relief centre in Bairnsdale, East Gippsland, Victoria. Picture: AAP
Governor-General David Hurley visits a relief centre in Bairnsdale, East Gippsland, Victoria. Picture: AAP

Here are some of the truly heartwarming messages we’ve received so far.

Please, keep them coming by leaving your message here or scrolling to the bottom of this story.

YOUR MESSAGES

“I live in England. It is very cold and we have been learning about all your terrible fires, which have made me feel really upset. I can’t imagine how horrible it is for you. I wish I could put out the fires and keep you safe.” – Keira Langowska-Gadd (age 10), Tipton, England

“Selfless. Brave. Epitome of the Australian spirit. Heroes. Community. Dedicated. Angels in yellow. Thank you feels so inadequate. Thank you, to all of you who are doing your utmost day in day out, with little thought for yourselves. Where would we be without you? Bless you all and please stay safe.” – Irene Forsyte, Murrumbeena

“Thank you beautiful Aussies who helped other Aussies in this disaster. Also massive thanks to my amazing daughter, Nicky, for her incredible effort in making so many animal bags to help in the recovery of our special fauna. And to my son-in-law, Johnno, who donated his camper trailer.” – Jan Wansbrough, Norlane

“Love, love how Aussies support each other in times of need. Thinking of the people and animals.” – Karen Day, Croydon

“My colleagues and I would like to send our wishes of hope during this difficult time to those affected by the bushfires. Our hearts go out to you and we want you to know that while we may not know you, we are thinking of you.” – Stephanie Anne, Bicton

A fire truck refills along the Princes Highway near Mallacoota on January 1. Picture: Luis Ascui/Getty Images
A fire truck refills along the Princes Highway near Mallacoota on January 1. Picture: Luis Ascui/Getty Images

“Sincere thank you to each and every one of you. Am thinking of you daily. Your work, time and effort is much appreciated. Love to you all.” – Vera Glock, Camberwell

“A piece of my heart is taken forever knowing that these poor animals have suffered and possibly some may even become extinct. My heart has been lifted knowing of the amazing generosity, time and compassion of those people helping to save our wildlife, and I thank you.” – Karen Roney, Mooroolbark

“Dear firefighters, our city wouldn’t be the same without you. Thank you for every minute of work spent protecting us. We notice and value it. Love my country, Australia.” – Rosanna Guzzardi, Melbourne

“Thank you to all firies and members of our emergency services. Shout out to my courageous, selfless partner who was deployed with the CFA to Mallacoota - love to all x. You are all heroes.” – Bel Jay, Kyneton

“My family and myself want to express our heartfelt gratitude and love to each and every single person who has helped save lives, homes, wildlife, pets and communities. We support you and send strength for the months ahead. We are here for you in the aftermath. Thank you.” – Sally Gaunt, Boronia

“Sending heartfelt thanks to everyone. Thank you with love for all that you are doing to keep everyone safe. Thank you with gratitude for all the people, animals and property that you have saved. Thank you with concern that when this is over that you can return home.” – Anne Rogers, Westmeadows

“I think everything I wanted to write has already been written. Anyway, I’ll give it a go. You’re heroes with a tremendous love for your beautiful country. We wish you a lot of strength and patience. You will win this battle!” – Esther Boersma, The Netherlands

“Everyone who has dedicated their time away from their own families to fight these horrendous fires are absolute heroes.” – Jenny Ringer, Mooroolbark

“You are all saints of the highest order. To face hell and to sacrifice of yourselves so as to protect others is the purest form of love. We cry with you all and we pray for you all. May each of you know the love and appreciation of us all.” – Rebekah Blackwolf, Blackburn

“We not only celebrate your sacrifices, but those of your own families you have left behind. Thank you and we are praying for your safety.” – Sudan Wood, Box Hill South

Readers send their messages of hope and love to those affected by the bushfire crisis.
Readers send their messages of hope and love to those affected by the bushfire crisis.

“It is truly heartwarming to see the Australian spirit of having each other’s back still thriving, despite it being a time of crisis — these communities continue to prove just how great it is to be Australian. Eternal thank yous to our incredible firefighters.” – Maddi Bradford, Niddrie

“No words can express the community’s gratitude and thanks to the emergency services.” – Jane Moore, Croydon South

“Thank you for leaving your families, homes and jobs to help our beloved communities dealing with this dreadful disaster! No amount of words could describe the admiration, respect and gratitude us Aussies have for you. Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi. You are in our hearts ... Thank you xx.” – Kirstie and Mia Mahaven, Mordialloc

“Thank you to the amazing courageous efforts of the amazing firefighters, the emergency workers and all those involved to help in these horrible fires all over Australia. Thank you so much for the support we have received from so many Australians and people from all over the world.” – Lisa Montgomery, Chirnside Park

“We are just so so sorry that this has happened to you. You guys are not alone, don’t ever think you are. By the amount of love and support that’s been given across this country for you to try and recuperate, much love and hugs to each one of you.” – Samantha Briggs, Wyndham Vale

“Sending lots of strength and hugs to all affected, families and fellow Aussies. And a massive hug to all the firefighters risking everything. Top job! We love you all, we are Australian and will pull through this with strength. Stay strong Australia.” – Debbie Pitman, Cranbourne North

“Thinking of everyone affected at this difficult time. Thank you to the firefighters and army personnel for your help. May God bless you, you are in my prayers.” – Sandra P, Victoria

“To all the heroes battling the elements. Your dedication, compassion and tireless effort is commendable. You are all the epitome of what defines our country.” – Angela Brati, Reservoir

“The courage to fight a fire, through threat of physical injury, exhaustion and sacrificing their time and being away from families and loved ones during a time of holidays and relaxation is awe inspiring. You do your country proud and we are so grateful for your sacrifice!” – Mark Busuttil, Greenvale

“Guys, no doubt you are the champions of all time, putting your life in danger savings hundreds and thousands of people. A great human service which shows solid and pure humanity. You guys deserve a lot more respect and rewards. Taking care of others like taking care of yourself.” – Faizan Ahmad, Noble Park North

Readers send their messages of hope and love to those affected by the bushfire crisis.
Readers send their messages of hope and love to those affected by the bushfire crisis.

“Forever grateful for ALL our emergency services involved in this disaster. Too many to mention. Thoughts also with your families as they are so often forgotten. Good luck and stay safe.” – Sally King, Hastings

“You are doing a wonderful job saving people’s lives and animals and people’s home.s” – Deidre Moss, East Bentleigh

“You people are very special. You risk your lives for people and their belongings and leave your own to hopefully be okay. I appreciate what you people do for us even though I am not at all affected by the fires. You should ALL be so proud of yourselves.” – Steven Walls, Preston Beach

“You people are absolutely heroes. Bless you all xxx” – Tracey Moran, Tenby Point

“Thank you so much to all the firefighters and volunteer community workers for everything you’re doing throughout the bushfire crisis. The services you are providing right now to help our fellow Victorians and Australians are very much appreciated, and we are all very grateful.” – Jamie Law, Leopold

“You are each an inspiration to all of us. Your grit, your fight, your passion to fight these fires. It makes us all proud to be Australian. We are right behind you.” – Jen Arnold, Gladstone Park

Volunteers sort food donations at Foodbank Victoria in Yarraville. Picture: Erik Anderson/AAP
Volunteers sort food donations at Foodbank Victoria in Yarraville. Picture: Erik Anderson/AAP

“Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for your bravery, support and courage during one of the most difficult times our country has faced. Your legacies will last a lifetime, never to be forgotten.” – Shauna Misevski, Mill Park

“To all our emergency service workers thank you for your tireless effort in fighting these horrendous fires, and doing your best to protect everyone. Stay safe. And to everyone who has lost everything, stay strong. My family’s thoughts and love are with you. God bless.” – Debbie Bahn, Frankston North

“Thank you so much for all you have done and are still doing. Putting your lives on the line every time you go out there. Appreciated by one and all xx” – Debbie Cooke, Epping

“Thank you to all the exceptionally brave firefighters community service personnel, and volunteers who have fought to keep our beautiful country intact the best way they know how.” – Maggie Sapet, Cranbourne North

“Thank you for your endless work to the point of pure exhaustion in keeping our communities safe. Your efforts and sacrifices are appreciated beyond words. I couldn’t be prouder to be Australian and watch us all come together in our time of need! THANK YOU! You’re what makes this country special!” – Rachel Brown, Endeavour Hills

“No words could ever begin to express the amount of gratitude and thanks we, as a community, have towards every single brave volunteer. I keep you guys in my morning prayer; that you are safe as you go about your day saving others.” – Ivy Nguyen, Albanvale

“Watching from afar. All of you are true legends. Putting your lives in danger to help your country. You are the true meaning of the word BRAVE. Keep fighting. You all deserve praise.” – Justin Rigney, Canada

“The job you are doing is absolutely incredible. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.” – Steph C, Lower Plenty

“God bless all firies who fought the bushfires. For all that lost their homes and had families pass away from this tragedy, I hope nothing but happiness and luck. Hope you all recover easy and well after this.” – Mariam Eid, Brunswick

Readers send their messages of hope and love to those affected by the bushfire crisis.
Readers send their messages of hope and love to those affected by the bushfire crisis.

“Thank you does not seem enough, but sincerely a heartfelt — thank you.” – Kerry O, Geelong

“How can we ever say “thank you” enough, every determined and selfless step towards these monstrous fires has helped save far more than we can ever imagine. Please return home safely to your families who we thank as well.” – Silvana Werner, Donvale

“To all of the selfless individuals supporting, rescuing, aiding and actively fighting these bushfires, you are an inspiration to all. The sacrifices you continue to make in the effort of saving our country are nothing other than heroic. Stand tall and together, the world stands united with you! Thank you.” – Julia Eppingstall, Black Rock

HAVE A MESSAGE TO SHARE?

Use the form below to write your message and we’ll publish as many as we can.

Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/victorian-bushfires-share-your-message-of-support-for-our-heroes-and-communities/news-story/ab8b62f1737f5b62699da867edd57114