Bushfire Resilience Day - a time for reflection and future planning
14/02/2025
As firefighters work tirelessly to contain the Wilmington Fire in the Mid North, the South Australian community is encouraged to reflect on the impact that bushfires have had on our state this Bushfire Resilience Day.
Held annually, the day honours those who have been affected by bushfires, acknowledging the lives lost, the damage suffered and the continuing resilience of the communities impacted by these events.
This year's Bushfire Resilience Day reflects on the 20th anniversary of the 2005 Wangary bushfire on the Eyre Peninsula, which burned approximately 78,000 hectares of land and had significant losses including nine fatalities, 93 houses and 237 sheds.
Chief Officer, Brett Loughlin AFSM, said Bushfire Resilience Day is a significant date in South Australia's history.
"Reflecting on significant incidents and the resilience of those who have recovered and adapted is incredibly important for growth and recovery," Mr Loughlin said.
"Sometimes, no amount of preparation can prevent nature from taking its toll."
The Wilmington Fire provides a current example of how local communities play a vital role in supporting one another physically with Farm Fire Unit responses but also mentally, with heartwarming cards from the Wilmington Primary School children.
"We understand this is a stressful time for the local community and we appreciate the support we have received," Mr Loughlin said.
Lower Eyre Group Officer Kym Eagle was on the frontline during the 2005 Wangary fires and has witnessed firsthand the costs of the tragedy, the impact on his community and the challenges that followed.
"The act of trying to be resilient can often mask the struggles of a community and the people within it," he said.
"Through learnings out of big events such as Wangary, we can put practices into our own lives or on our own properties to help people to feel like they can speak out if they're not feeling particularly resilient."
"Being resilient and how you bounce back is an individual thing and we need to embrace that and work together to ensure people can seek help when they need it the most," he said.
Minister for Emergency Services, Emily Bourke, said the day was also a chance for South Australians to consider the role they can play to support hardworking volunteers.
"Today is a day to remember and thank our incredible emergency services personnel and volunteers, but it's a reminder for all South Australians to think about how they can prepare for bushfires," Minister Bourke said.
"Staying informed and taking steps to manage bushfire risk helps ensure the safety and wellbeing of the men and women on the frontline, protecting lives and homes."
"We have seen the devastating consequences of previous fires and acknowledge the strength and resilience of individuals and communities who continue to recover."
