[stephenb (Stephen)]

Doug, I heard that news today, so tragic. Please, keep your ear to the ground for the fire updates (I'm sure you are anyway), stay safe and don't hesitate to evac. That goes out to others still in the danger areas.

I have spent the last 3 days on shift working in an Emergency Communications Centre and I have seen, read, heard and witnessed in this time, some of the most horrific stories, that will live with me forever.

I have watched work colleagues walk out of work tonight, some pale and drained, many of us reserved and quiet at the sheer enormous size of the fires. Having said that, I have never been more proud of my fellow colleagues, who have worked tirelessly behind the radio to support the real heroes on the ground: CFA, SES, VicPol, MAS and Ambulance Vic, DSE - and now the Army, Red Cross, Disaster Victim Indentification teams (DVI)- tasked to the most unspeakable, but essential work, and everyone who is now offering food, clothing, time and money.

This will change the fabric of the State of Victoria for generations to come.

I am not interested in blame on the cause - that will not help to rebuild.

I am not interested in blame on the response - this was an unprecedented disaster, and what I have learned in disaster study is that you cannot, CANNOT plan for a disaster of this magnitude, and I will not waste time with uneducated and ill-informed armchair experts, like those before me.

With entire towns completely sealed off as crime scenes and potentially dozens of victims yet to be found, let's try not to forget these victims and displaced people in the following days, weeks, and even years.

I may not contribute any further to this thread as I need to disconnect for a while from the last 3 days, before our staff at my Comms Centre ramp up some fundraising efforts next shift.

To fellow IIS members in these areas, residents, vols or both, stay safe and my best wishes.