The contributors wish to thank everyone who shared their time and stories at what was an extremely difficult time.
Brittany Evins: This story wouldn’t have been possible without the help of Trent Murphy and the entire ABC Adelaide team. Thank you for your guidance and support. Thanks also to the other incredible people who shared their experiences, that weren’t mentioned here. Your stories will never be forgotten. Lastly but not least to my beautiful family and support network at home.
Nick Hose: thanks to David Berthold, Daniel Saward, Justin Stevens and the good folks of Batlow for trusting us with their story.
Melinda James: special mention to Jen Courtney, producer extraordinaire at ABC Illawarra, as well as to all my other super dedicated and talented ABC Illawarra colleagues; Superintendent Mark Williams from RFS Shoalhaven for always being unflappable and available whatever the hour; and ABC listeners for their vast knowledge, empathy and willingness to help one another.
Jonathon Kendall: thanks to Leo op den Brouw, as well as Victoria Police, Parks Victoria, the Australian Defence Force including the helicopter crew that got us from Gabo; my family and my wife, Belinda, who is always as cool as a cucumber in a crisis.
Jennifer McCutcheon: thanks to my amazing ABC colleagues, who gave up so much to work around the clock to help keep people safe during the summer.
Philippa McDonald: thanks to Sally Bryant from Legal Aid NSW, Susan Cullinan and Angela Lemme from Australian Red Cross, Resilience NSW, David Crust from NPWS NSW, Ben Shepherd from NSW Rural Fire Service, Mayor Liz Campbell from Kempsey Shire Council, and Mayor Carol Sparks from Glen Innes Severn Council.
Greg Nelson: thanks to the volunteer firefighters of the NSW RFS, the communities of the NSW south coast and staff of ABC News, ABC South East and 7.30. Indefatigable all.
Baz Ruddick: thanks to Jack Wotton.
Josh Szeps: thanks to Paul Barry and the Hon. Matt Kean, MP, for their generosity in sharing their research.
Claire Wheaton: thanks to the Redmond Family and Yannis Gantner.