The 2019-2020 bushfires wreaked devastation on Victoria’s east. With COVID-19 dominating ever since, it’s extraordinary to look back on the images that shocked the nation and the world. Picture: Getty Images

The fires turned Mallacoota’s skies red and the mountains black. Fire roared down the only road into and out of Mallacoota, and it took a naval evacuation to reconnect the town to a shocked nation. Picture: Cassandra Smith.

A dog plays in front of burnt trees in Mallacoota on January 15, 2020. Picture: Getty Images

More than 1500 people were evacuated by Navy ships and helicopters to Melbourne in the week after New Year’s Eve. Picture: AFP

ADF armoured vehicles travelled the Princes Highwayto bring supplies in to Mallacoota, after the coastal town was cut off by fire on New Years Eve, forcing residents and holidaymakers to shelter on the beach. Picture: Getty Images

The town of Orbost in East Gippsland was covered in thick smoke. Picture: David Crosling

Dozens of properties were destroyed in the East Gippsland fires. Picture: Getty Images

Thick smoke from fills the air in East Gippsland. Picture: Getty Images

Firefighters faced terrifying conditions such as extreme heat and savage winds as they battled the blazes. Picture: Getty Images

In recent months, the town and surrounding areas have started the road to recovery and tourists have returned. Picture: Jason Edwards