I am constantly amazed at how Australians come together to help those that have been hard-done-by and the recent bushfires are another incredible example of the open arms that are offered to those in need. One of the first major examples of the generosity of Australians that I witnessed was in 2004 when the Asian tsunami devastated the lives of millions in the Indian ocean. Within hours of the distaster there were plames, supplies and drives to raise money for the victims. In the end the Australian government led the world in providing moetary support through a contribution of over $1 billion USD. The majority of that money went to our closet neighbour, Indonesia, the same country that harboured the Bali bombers who were responsible for blowing 88 Australians into bits.
The Victorian bush fire disaster has left hundreds of people dead and thousands homeless. These are the immediate effects, but the long term effects will be much greater with the livelihood of thousands of farmers and rural workers in jeopardy. Imagine trying to feed your herd with the ashes off the land, or returning to a business in a town that would make Faluga look like a paradise. These are the realities that they face, but Australians have answered the call.
I don't know anyone here that hasn't contributed to the victims, whether by supplying blankets, donating money or giving blood for the burn patients. I think one of my favorite examples of providing an immediate solution was setting up a "Coach Surfing" service http://bushfirehousing.org/ that connects people in need of accommodation with those that have extra space in their house. This was a service set-up hours after the enormity of the disaster was known and has been able to place hundreds of people who now have no home to return to.
The Australian spirit will persevere in the end, but if you want to help, you can donate through the Australian Red Cross . Every little bit counts and you'll feel good helping those who have a tradition of helping others.
