The 2019-2020 Australian bushfires have been absolutely devastating for this country. Wildfires have raged throughout every single Australian state, with the worst devastation found in New South Wales. Consequently, we have seen tragedies befall so many of our local communities. Impacting the homes, livelihoods and above all, the lives of thousands of Australians.
Due to the catastrophic fires we lost three brave, volunteer firefighters in the ranks of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service. Andrew O’Dwyer, 26, Samuel McPaul, 28 and Geoffrey Keaton, 32, lost their lives as they worked to defend our local communities.
Geoffrey Keaton & Andrew O’Dwyer
Geoffrey Keaton and Andrew O’Dwyer tragically lost their lives on the 19th of December, 2019. The vehicle carrying these two brave men was struck by a tree, causing the vehicle to overturn. This crash resulted in the deaths of the two men, both of whom leave behind devoted partners and young children. Three fellow members of the Horsley Park Rural Fire Brigade were in the rear seat at the time and survived with non-life threatening injuries.
Samuel McPaul
Only days later, on the 30th of December 2019, we lost another true Australian hero. Samuel McPaul and two other members of his brigade were operating from a truck at the Green Valley fireground. Extreme winds associated with the fire caused this truck to roll over resulting in the heartbreaking death of Samuel. This accident also caused injuries to the other two firefighters present at the time. Samuel leaves behind his wife and unborn child, due May of 2020.
Supporting the Rural Fire Service
Because of these tragic events, the families of these three brave men are struggling. In these uncertain times, all with young children to support, now more than ever they need our help. True Australian spirit is supporting your neighbours and here at OneAdventure we’d like to show our support to the families of Samuel, Andrew and Geoffrey.
The Rural Fire Service of NSW is collecting donations for each of these families and it’s so easy to donate! Simply go to the RFS NSW website and donate via direct deposit or by credit card. Tax receipts are available via contact to [email protected].
All funds collected by this effort will be divided between the families and put toward provisions for the families and the futures of their children.
Thank you to all of our emergency services workers for all that you do, protecting and supporting our great country.
If you’re looking to upgrade your caravan, camper, boat or 4WD, get a 30 second quick quote on finance with CreditOne – Australia’s best rated finance broker.
