More than half of these funds have already been distributed, with $16,614 sent through Bowral Church of Christ to fund rebuilding in the Southern Highlands region and $19,000 through Nicole Gorzalka, chaplain at The Glen, Fresh Hope’s aged care facility in Batemans Bay, for locals who need to rebuild their lives.

“The destruction in Batemans Bay is incredible,” said Nicole. “There are places nearby that look more like a bomb has gone off than a fire has come through. Nearly 400 homes have been lost. I personally know at least 20 families who have lost their home.