Bushfire Resilience Day took on renewed significance this year, with recent fires highlighting the tragic and lasting impact bushfires have on South Australian lives, homes and the environment.

Bushfire Resilience Day was marked yesterday, 16 February, and is a time for communities to reflect on past bushfires, learn from shared experiences, and strengthen their preparedness for future seasons.

For the past fortnight, the South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) and supporting agencies have been responding to the Deep Creek fire on the Fleurieu Peninsula, which ignited just days after a nearby fire at Tooperang had been declared controlled. 

Together, the two incidents have burnt nearly 5,000 hectares, destroying two homes, causing significant property loss and resulting in extensive environmental damage.

In November last year, CFS firefighter Peter Curtis died while working as part of a National Parks and Wildlife Service brigade on the state’s West Coast.

His passing has deeply affected the emergency services community and is a solemn reminder that every day firefighters risk their lives to protect South Australian communities.

CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin AFSM says Bushfire Resilience Day is an important opportunity acknowledge both the devastating impact of bushfires and the vital role of preparation and resilience.

“In the aftermath of a bushfire there are many costs, and sometimes these are deeply tragic,” he says. 

“While the impact of bushfires can be devastating, we continue to see how preparation and resilience make a real difference.”

“During the recent Deep Creek Fire, properties that were well-prepared either stood strong or were able to be defended by crews, showing what’s possible when communities take steps to reduce their risk.”

Chief Officer Loughlin says the day encourages South Australians reflect on lessons learned and take proactive steps to strengthen their own preparedness.

“During the recent Fleurieu fires we have seen multiple examples where preparation meant properties were saved and reflected the bushfire resilience of our communities.

“Preventative risk reduction and preparation in at-risk areas gives you and your family the best chance of survival when the next incident arrives on your doorstep, and I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to create a bushfire survival plan.”

South Australian Emergency Services Minister Rhiannon Pearce says regional South Australians have lived with the reality of bushfires for generations, but the toll they take should never be underestimated.

“Bushfire Resilience Day is an opportunity for people and communities affected by bushfires to come together and share their experiences. 

“It is also an opportunity to build bushfire resilience by highlighting the importance of preventative risk reduction and preparation for the next bushfire.”