I Hate Dialysis Message Board

Off-Topic => Off-Topic: Talk about anything you want. => Topic started by: pelagia on February 08, 2009, 04:30:21 PM

Title: Fires in Australia
Post by: pelagia on February 08, 2009, 04:30:21 PM
CNN just ran a report on the fires in Australia, especially those north of the Melbourne area.   I am sad to learn that these fires have already lead to a significant loss of life.  I hope that all of our IHD family members are safe.  :grouphug;
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: kitkatz on February 08, 2009, 04:52:11 PM
I saw a few of the fires on news last night.  What a ruin of property and lives.  My first words were I hope my IHD.com family there is safe.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Chris on February 08, 2009, 05:12:11 PM
We need a head count.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: okarol on February 08, 2009, 05:15:41 PM

It's so horrible - such terrible news!
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: charee on February 08, 2009, 06:37:28 PM
very sad over 100 lives lost and 650 houses , some small towns have been completely burnt out and to think someone may have started the fires , i hope if they prove they were deliberate they will catch who ever did this , we had some small fires about 1 hour away from where i live we are very lucky as we have had 2 weeks of temps over 40c . Today is a little cooler and very Smokey , smoke coming from the fires in Victoria . Our local Preschool is setting up a toy drive to help out some of the family's with kids that have lost everything.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: rose1999 on February 08, 2009, 11:24:36 PM
We have family (cousins) in Whittlesea, Victoria, they are in their late 70s.  Mum will ring today to see if see how things are.  Richmel are you all OK??
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Chris on February 08, 2009, 11:29:49 PM
Last time I talked to RichardMel, I think he said the fires where somewhat near him. It caused a power outage. Not sure how far away though he is.
  Just get into Lucinda's Hummer and get out if needed.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Falkenbach on February 09, 2009, 12:28:24 AM
Whittlesea is in the thick of it, Rose, let us know how you get on. It is however one of the places everyone has gone for emergency shelter, so that sounds promising.

I thought of you Charee - what town are you in?

I'm in South Australia, but Victoria is my home state. Most of our families and friends are in safe areas nowhere near the fires. We have some good friends in the danger zone, but they are accounted for.

RichardMel, update us PLEASE.

Anyone wishing to donate to the relief fund, details are here: http://www.nab.com.au/wps/wcm/connect/nab/nab/home/About_Us/8/5/14/NAB+establishes+$1+Million+bushfire+relief+fund
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: RichardMEL on February 09, 2009, 03:11:39 AM
OK OK Sorry guys I was in Adelaide (yeah cb's state) yesterday and today. I am fine. i am nowhere near the fires as I live in inner Melbourne.

It is an absolute tragedy. The worst in our country's history, and the death toll will only rise. Perhaps well over 200. A thousand plus properties destroyed. And to think some lowlifes have started some of the fires (heat+lightning have started the others) and still further lowlifes have been looting (like the idiots who looted a fire station while they were out fighting the fires.. I mean WHAT THE HELL?) is unbelieveable. This is a tragic time for my state and our country.

My thoughts are with everyone involved. As far as I know no IHD people are directly affected. I know one gal from my unit who lives in a fire affected region but she is OK last i heard.

Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Wattle on February 09, 2009, 04:39:34 AM
:waving; 

I'm ok too. I live in Bayside Melbourne. The fires are more rural, to the north of the city.
Saturday was the hottest day on record here in Melbourne. 46.7 Degrees C. Fueled by a ferocious wind the fires are the worst our country has ever seen.
You all know by now that we have been in a drought and on water restrictions for a long time now. The bush was so dry it  just light up like a huge blow torch. Four stories high and roaring like a jet engine. People were left trapped when the fire changed direction and gave them no time to escape. Those who stayed to try and protect their houses had little chance against this hell on earth.

It is a sad day here in Victoria.  :'(
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: monrein on February 09, 2009, 05:13:53 AM
It's been tragic to see this news on TV.  So sad for so many.  Glad you guys are OK.   :grouphug;
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: paddbear0000 on February 09, 2009, 07:23:24 AM
Yes, I'm very glad to hear that everyone is okay too. We just need to hope that they get the fires under control soon so none of our members become a part of this tragedy! 
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: willieandwinnie on February 09, 2009, 07:37:11 AM
 :grouphug; Hope they can get this under control and there is no more death and destruction. News coverage is heart breaking.  :cuddle;
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: twirl on February 09, 2009, 09:31:58 AM
praying that Ang is not by any of those fires
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Rerun on February 09, 2009, 10:21:17 AM
Thanks everyone for checking in.  I hope they can get things put out!

                              :waving;
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: kitkatz on February 09, 2009, 10:35:15 AM
Periodically Southern California goes up in fire.  I cannot imagine a fire as big as you all are talking about!
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: tamara on February 09, 2009, 01:01:38 PM
My uncle has lost his house in the kinglake area and Allan's brother wife and dog have evacuated and are staying at our house.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: paul.karen on February 09, 2009, 01:05:22 PM
:-(

SAD news.
I hope  Allens house will be spared.
and tragic that your uncle lost his home.

Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: thegrammalady on February 09, 2009, 01:07:33 PM
glad to hear everyone is ok. thanks for letting us know.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: tamara on February 09, 2009, 02:41:43 PM
We are in metro Melbourne so we are safe, but the whole state is effected.........
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: pelagia on February 09, 2009, 03:49:35 PM
Those are hellish fires.  I am sad that so many have died, and that so many are losing their homes.  I am sorry to hear that your uncle lost his home, Tamara.  I hope that your brother's home will not be lost.  What can they do to fight these fires?  The drought is very bad and I am sure that there is no rain in sight.  It's a terrible situation.

Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: monrein on February 09, 2009, 06:47:15 PM
Tamara, I'm so sorry to hear that your family has been affected in these ways by the fires.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Chris on February 09, 2009, 08:39:55 PM
Sorry to hear of the misfortune on your uncles house Tamara. Hope your Husbands brothers house is spared from the fire.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: rose1999 on February 09, 2009, 11:13:01 PM
Not managed to raise relatives in Whittlesea yet - hope they have just been evacuated or are helping at shelters or something.  We will keep trying and let you know, it is worrying that the haven't contacted us to say they are OK.  They live in Willan Road  if anyone has any news of that area.  Glad all those on here are OK.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Bajanne on February 10, 2009, 12:19:46 AM
This is so sad to read about, especially the loss of life!  I am thankful that our IHD family members have been spared.  Hope you hear from your family members soon, Rose. :grouphug;
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: jessup on February 10, 2009, 01:30:09 AM
Geez Tamara mate
So glad your mob are safe
It absolutely sucks
So many lives lost and so many people have lost everything
It's been amazing here in the top end
Fundraising and donations of all kinds are happening now
toll transport have contacted many territorians and have advised that any donations (wether money or food, clothes etc) will be transported free of charge to the mob south
How bloody wonderful
Most of us mob up here have tears in our eyes and hearts
We're worried about cyclones but WTF
Queensland mob are drowning with floods
and the Mexicans are burnt to buggary
On behalf of us top enders and as a  IHD family member
Lots of love and prayers to all
 :flower; :flower; :flower;
 :grouphug;

 
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: jessup on February 10, 2009, 01:32:12 AM
Just heard on tv
189 lives lost
Gee Wizz

Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: twirl on February 10, 2009, 05:10:37 AM
ALRIGHT ANG,
THIS IS NOT FUNNY -- YOU DID NOT PM ME FOR THE LAST COUPLE OF DAYS
THAT IS NOT LIKE YOU
YOU GOT ME WORRIED
PM ME NOW - MISTER
OR IT IS THE NAUGHTY CHAIR FOR YOU


I know it is rude to yell in bold on this website but in this case it is necessary----- I AM CONCERNED -- darn it ----
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: RichardMEL on February 10, 2009, 05:12:32 AM
The police believe it could get to 400. Words can not describe. I've donated to the RSPCA to help the animals affected, and to the general bushfire appeal. I think everyone here knows someone or more than one person directly affected by the fires. I have a Dialysis friend who moved to doing home hemo - she had to evacuate. We saw her  at the unit today as she did in center dialysis with us. There are fears her house could be in trouble. Last I heard her parents were staying to fight fires but they were hopeful they would be spared....

very tough times for everyone.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: twirl on February 10, 2009, 05:18:48 AM
oh Romeo Mel -
are you okay -
I am worried about you now -
please take care -
this is worse than IKE -- at least we knew it was coming
you are in my prayers

Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: RichardMEL on February 10, 2009, 05:41:03 AM
Please DO NOT worry about me. Like Tamara/Wattle I live in suburban Melbourne. I am not in any danger (well unless my fridge blows up or something) so take me off the worry list.

Plenty of others have lost everything and it is terribly sad and distressing. At the same time it has brought out the best in our community - strangers banding together, communities rallying around each other.. even busineses and others donating money, time, efforts etc. Even my  football club has raised $50,000 with a charity photo shoot organised in mere hours. Ford has donated cars both to use on the ground and to auction to raised funds, a major underwear supplier is donating new underwear, socks, bras etc for those in need... all sorts of things.

And still it goes on, and the fires burn.....

Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: drinkboy on February 10, 2009, 07:04:31 AM
It is reassuring to hear that so many people have stepped up and helped out.   Your football club sure came thru in a big way.  Hopefully, things will get under control soon because that is a terrible situation going on down there.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: rose1999 on February 10, 2009, 12:16:12 PM
We have made contact with Bill & Catherine, they are OK as their house in Whittlesea has not been burned but they have friends who have lost a lot of things.  Mum spoke to them and she said they sounded upset and tired, they are in too much shock to go into details but we know they are safe and well, it has been a dreadful time for all in that area.  Prayers for those who have been lost or who have lost family, friends, homes or pets and prayers of thanks for those who have been saved  :grouphug;
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: kellyt on February 10, 2009, 12:26:24 PM
What an absolutely horrifying event.  I'm glad to hear you, Tamara and Wattle are safe, Richard, but my heart aches for those who have lost their homes or worse their lives.  I can't even think about the animals, it's so painful.   :'(

I did see on the news this morning that a heard of sheep managed to make it through.  They were all huddled together so sweet looking.  I hope someone is able to go in and get them.    :cuddle;

Love to you all in Australia!
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: paris on February 10, 2009, 03:41:11 PM
Because of IHD, these events really hit home.  When we hear about the fires, we think of our friends and worry. It is real to us because people we know and love could be affected.   I pray all your friends and family stay safe.  You are all in my thoughts. 
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: okarol on February 10, 2009, 03:56:27 PM
 :grouphug;  :grouphug;
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: twirl on February 10, 2009, 04:14:27 PM
Ang pm'ed me and he is out of harm's way but is totally devastated to say the least  :'(
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Ang on February 10, 2009, 04:16:52 PM
sorry  i've  not  been  around  for  a  few  days, been  trying  to  digest

the  goings  on,  in  country  victoria.


anyone  one  who's  computer  savvy,

find  a  photo  of  a  fire  officer  giving  a  drink  to  a  koala,

the  koala  drank  3  bottles  of  water,and  held  the  firemans  hand,  the  picture  is  simply awesome.put  it  on  IHD  for  everyone  to  see.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: mikey07840 on February 10, 2009, 05:24:55 PM
Here it is:


Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: pelagia on February 10, 2009, 07:11:38 PM
Incredible.   :grouphug;
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: RichardMEL on February 10, 2009, 07:14:33 PM
This article is distressing, but really brings it home...

http://www.theage.com.au/opinion/i-now-understand-the-word-firestorm-20090209-8288.html?page=-1
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: kellyt on February 10, 2009, 08:45:18 PM
OMG Mikey!  That is the sadest and sweetest photo I've seen in a long, long time!  Are they trying to move these animals?  My heart aches!   :'(
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Falkenbach on February 10, 2009, 11:12:39 PM
It would be a bit hard, sadly. Obviously this koala was found in a state of distress and that is why the firey has been able to approach it and give it a drink. They would not normally be so open to human interaction and it could be quite dangerous to approach one, with their huge claws and all.

I suspect the majority of koalas and other wildlife in the affected areas have been lost along with the houses and other lives.

I was also devastated to see all the people who lost horses and kennels full of dogs. One couple had their dog trailer loaded up and were ready to "get out" when the fire front swept around on them very suddenly and they had to run to a nearby paddock and lie down to survive - but they lost all their dogs and horses and are devastated. I wept when I thought of those dogs trapped in that trailer, SO CLOSE to having escaped.

*sigh* Also, my sister works for Victoria Police and has to hear all kinds of saddening updates. I am devastated for my home state and feel absolutely useless.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Wattle on February 10, 2009, 11:25:17 PM
Any animals, domestic or native are being taken to shelters to get treatment. Sadly there will be thousands that didn't make it. Too hard to talk about.

Here is a link to the koala that was saved. 

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,25038852-661,00.html
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Chris on February 11, 2009, 01:51:38 AM
Incredible video of the koala Wattle, thanks.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: twirl on February 11, 2009, 02:50:53 AM
heart warming in a time of horror
thanks, Ang
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: RichardMEL on February 11, 2009, 05:40:19 AM
I think of the family who had to cower in a room while their cats and kittens just a room away burned to death. I can't imagine how that would feel for a family, including young children, fearing for their own lives, in a smoke and fire filled room, hearing the cries of their beloved pets so close and being able to do nothing. I cry when I think of it. That's why i donated money to the RSPCA to assist animals during this time.

My heart goes out to all people affected by this ongoing situation... people, families, animals.. it's horrible.

And what happened last night? Some low lifes went into an area ravaged by fires - these "men" went in and allegedly lit NEW fires !!! What sort of person would do that???

One thing is certain - if any of the public found any of these people I think a summary form of justice would prevail....
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: KarenInWA on February 11, 2009, 07:25:32 AM
Richard, that is awful about those "men".  Hearing things like that make me so  >:(  :rant;

I think if those people were identified and paraded out in public somehow, they probably wouldn't survive.  So that alone should be their punishment.  Identified, have their identies broadcast, and let the citizens do the rest.  May sound barbaric, but then again, what they did was barbaric.  "People" like that simply don't deserve to live.

Politically, I tend to lean left, until it comes to things like that.  Then I strongly believe in, uh, "selective reduction".

KarenInWA
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Sluff on February 11, 2009, 09:41:22 AM
I am angry  >:( that these fires were intentionally set. The loss of any life both human and animal just angers me so much I can't even explain it. Glad our IHD family is OK.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: monrein on February 11, 2009, 09:58:09 AM
As if it isn't bad enough what happens naturally to harm us.  Then we have idiots like these.  Disgraceful.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Falkenbach on February 11, 2009, 11:02:31 PM
Situations like this give me out-of-the-ordinary leanings towards the extreme right, also.....

Just put 'em up there, and let the fire victims do what they will with the b*******.
Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: RichardMEL on February 12, 2009, 06:49:39 PM
Nuptuals go on as flames approach.

http://www.theage.com.au/national/nuptials-go-on-as-flames-approach-20090212-863e.html?page=-1

Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: pelagia on May 15, 2009, 07:57:34 AM
4/12/2009

Tommy Emmanuel joins talents from the Australian music industry to help support people affected by the devastating bush fires.

'Tangerine Sky' the single will be released in Australia on April 23rd, 2009 and all proceeds will go to the Salvation Army.

Watch Tangerine Sky the video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH2jm_Pof18 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH2jm_Pof18)

Title: Re: Fires in Australia
Post by: Falkenbach on June 06, 2009, 08:40:01 PM
It's good of him to do this, but I'd rather donate than buy his music  ;)

Still, a very touching thing for him to do.