It's Times Like These...

[firefly]

Most Australian Members will probably be aware of the devastation of the bush fires in the state of Victoria, Not far from Melbourne. In fact it may have come to many members attention no matter where they are from.

It has come to light that the majority of the fires were started deliberately, whilst other fires have been deemed suspicious.

Here are some numbers for you to take in.

Death Toll: 181 and rising ( they believe it may exceed 300 )

Houses Lost: 750 +

Hectares Burnt: 330000 as it stands ATM (815447 acres)

I could give you more numbers but it's all a bit too horrific. What makes it even more horrific is the fact that a human being could bring this upon his/her fellow man.

It's times like these that makes me wonder what is wrong with the world and some of it's inhabitants.

It also makes me greatful for what I do have: Family, love and happyness.

 

[donq]

The police appear to be closing in on some of those suspected of starting a number of blazes. When asked if they were locals, the police said they were "known to police". A number of blazes had been started in the area over the last few years.

What also surprises me, is that often those who start the fires are not youths - they are often men in their 40s or even 50s.

Whole areas have been closed off as crime scenes, though in some cases arson has been ruled out.

 

[GILSAN]

I've been following with horror the video images and photos of this catastrophe. Bodies found calcinated in bathtubs, swimming pools and inside cars that were traped on the roads by fallen trees.

The stories from those who survived are also amazing, like the man who jumped into a swamp and stayed totally submerged until the fire passed. One report said that with winds of 60 -70 km/hour the fire advanced at about 100 metres every 3 seconds.

Lets hope the authorities nab the bastards and lock them up for a very long time.

 

[Xombie]

Good coverage - http://www.abc.net.au/news/events/bushfires/

Crazy pictures - http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2009/02/bushfires_in_victoria_australi.html

'Fire crews are worried major blazes burning out of control near Melbourne could join to create one massive bushfire.'

Oh great, a perfect fire storm.