Several fires down here too in Southwest Victoria. It's been even hotter down here than in Sydney and Darwin. AND we didn't get much rain all last year. Rained a bit last night. Tanks filling a little. Some homes lost in our nearest fire but we're out on the plains and surrouned by grazed paddocks.
It's the loss of dwindling wildlife habitat that is so serious in the long term. People tend to expect national parks to be cleared as fire breaks for their homes. Plantation companies expect the same. Essential undergrowth,leaf litter,old dead trees,logs and such are thought of as "fuel". "Fire reduction" burning and clearing is a complex issue.
Oh dear! it's Greenie bashing season again. Must stop raving. It's cooler at last. Cheers, Joy