Federal Member for Gorton Brendan O’Connor today paid tribute to the extraordinary efforts of local emergency services units during the weekend fires across Victoria, that have become the worst natural disaster in Australia’s history. 

“Many of my constituents have family and friends who are among the dead, the injured andthe homeless as a result of the fires,” Mr O’Connor said in Parliament today.

He paid particular attention to the work done by the Melton CFA crews, who have been at the forefront of the action fighting fires in Kinglake and elsewhere. 

Also the Brimbank and Melton SES, who have had a vitally important role in support offirefighters, clearing roads, attending to damaged houses, maintaining electricity and lighting,and providing assistance to the relief centres. 

On a personal note, Mr O’Connor expressed his thanks and gratitude that his friend, unionorganiser Barry Miller, narrowly escaped death attempting to save his son, who he believed had become lost while escaping the flames. 

“He managed to escape through the passenger door just before his car exploded in flames.A driver of one of the other vehicles, someone known to Barry, was not so lucky, burning to death before his eyes. The emergency worker who then came to Barry’s aid realized the victim of the other car was his father. 

“This is unimaginable horror…” 

Local Governments, including Brimbank City Council and the Shire of Melton, have beentaking steps to make a major coordinated contribution to Emergency Relief funds. 

In addition, Mr O’Connor said the Australian Government will do everything in its power toalleviate the suffering of those who have lost friends, family and property. 

“The Government response will of course evolve with events and as more information comes to hand, but we will be helping not over days and weeks but the months and years ahead.”