Two years on after the devastating Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island bushfires, the Webb family is rebuilding their lives and their beloved Cudlee Creek home with the help of a generous donation from the community.
After the fire tore through their property exactly two years ago on 20 December 2019, Marc and Rhiann Webb lost everything.
They are one of more than 1,000 families, individuals and businesses to share in $9.07 million donated by the community, organisations and businesses, the Marshall Liberal Government – and even music sensation, Elton John – through the State Emergency Relief Fund.
Mr Webb said he was incredibly thankful to receive more than $30,000 in Government grants, which is now supporting his family rebuild their home.
“The support from the South Australian community was and continues to be amazing,” said Mr Webb.
“We are still receiving special rates on some purchases related to the rebuild from local suppliers, and the local community understand that bushfire recovery is a five year journey not an overnight mop up and the grants we received from them have definitely helped us post bushfire.”
Acting Minister for Human Services John Gardner said the compassion, generosity and support of South Australians was helping communities rebuild.
“Two years on, it is heart-warming to see the impact that the funds from the SA Bushfire Appeal has made on the lives of our Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island residents who were impacted by the fires,” said Minister Gardner.
“Our community dug deep in South Australia’s hour of need and they can be incredibly proud their contribution is helping people rebuild their homes, sports clubs, community facilities and farms.
“We continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with both our Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island communities every step of the way in their recovery through this anniversary and in the years ahead.”
Of the more than $9 million in donations, including a Marshall Liberal Government contribution of $2 million, the State Emergency Relief Fund helped a total of 1,062 people through 2,979 gift donations including:
- $2.85 million to 195 households whose residence was destroyed
- $2.9 million to 937 households to repair property infrastructure
- $1.96 million to support loss of income to 509 businesses
- $1.12 million to support community projects
