“Virtually the whole town has been destroyed,” he said of Marysville. “I saw some of the devastation after Ash Wednesday (in 1983), but I have never seen anything like this in my life. It is a mixture of fire, hurricane and cyclone – houses, tress just snapped in half,” said Mr. Brumby.
No matter where you live in Australia the devastating bushfires in Victoria have left their mark. The worst natural disaster in Australia’s history and for those of us ever so fortunate not to have been involved it is now time to help. The Carlton Football Club is urging all supporters to assist wherever possible and join the players, coaches and staff in providing the much needed assistance to those who have suffered through this unbelievable nightmare.
The Carlton Football Club has been affected directly by the bushfires with the family home of 2008 draftee Caleb Tiller being destroyed in the fires at Buxton.
“Four months ago Caleb was sitting in his family home waiting for the chance of a lifetime to be drafted and he had that wish come true. Now just four months later, the tragic events of the weekend have seen his family home lost. It is just unbelievable,” said Carlton coach Brett Ratten.
The Carlton Football Club is working with the AFL and our key partners to provide further assistance and support for the communities devastated by the bushfires and details on further assistance will be announced soon.
The AFL has announced a NAB Cup Bushfire Appeal game between Essendon and the Western Bulldogs at The Dome on Friday night as a fundraiser for communities devastated by the bushfires. The AFL, the players and the 16 clubs are working together to raise funds and to show support for the communities affected by the fires and the emergency service workers and volunteers who have risked their lives to fight the fires or provide support. This NAB Cup Bushfire Appeal game is the first of a number of initiatives in support of the ongoing appeal.
“We have all been affected by the tragic events of the last few days and everyone at the club wants to help. The playing group have spoken about individual support and also how we as a club can offer support and assistance where it is most needed,” said Kade Simpson
“Immediate support from individuals can be provided through the donation of money and blood to assist the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund. This is something we can all do and we urge Carlton supporters to get involved and support the appeal,” added Simpson.
Donations to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal Fund can be made by ringing 1800 811 700 or by visiting redcross.org.au
