Fire ignites a sense of community
Tillie Kirkland, founder of the Newcastle 911 Policing Forum, commended emergency services and local forums, all of whom responded to two massive fires. Read more
INGAGANE – In times of great need, true character is revealed.
Tillie Kirkland, founder of the Newcastle 911 Policing Forum, commended emergency services and local forums, all of whom responded to two massive fires on August 3.
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The first blaze broke out near Ingagane that afternoon.
Mrs Kirkland explained how 911 response units loaded bakkies with water tankards, and joined paramedics, towing companies and Protection Services at the scene.
She supplied additional water and cooldrinks for these responders.
A 56-year-old farmer was injured fighting the fire, a task made more difficult by strong winds and dry grassy areas.
He was treated at the scene and later transported to hospital for further care.
Shortly after the first fire near Ingagane was extinguished, reports came in regarding a second fire close to Normandien.
Responders joined the farming community to quell this blaze as well.
“It was amazing to see the community coming together. This is what I wanted; our slogan is ‘from the community, for the community’, and that’s what happened.”
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In the evening of the same day, another fire broke out near Trim Park, and spread to the area near the Newcastle Oval Raceway.
Mrs Kirkland said 911 members were at the scene within minutes.
“The response members used their own vehicles and equipment to extinguish the fire, and were joined by Fire Services officials, who were returning from another scene.”
