Publication:Newcastle News Issue 1 2009/Newcastle Supports Victorian Bush Fire Victims

Some of the crew who helped out when needed. l-r: ABBM Simon Huntress, ABMT Andrew Davis, ABMT Cody Linsley, ABMT Benn Bramich, ABWTR Lynsey Lake, LCDR Leigh Kisnorbo, LEUT Kelly Pettigrove, LCDR Mark Bailey.

Victoria was devastated by the most horrific bushfire that this country has ever seen which left many families affected, including some from our Ship. The bush fire left over 1500 houses destroyed and over 200 lives lost. This event though tragic, has shown the fortitude and strength of the Australian people.

To assist the relief efforts, HMAS Newcastle initiated a Victorian Bush Fire Appeal. The Ships Company generously donated to this worthy cause, raising in excess of two thousand dollars, which was summed up by the Executive Officer LCDR Charles Bourne who said, "The ships company were touched by the magnitude of loss and donated whole heartedly".