The Member for Kiama, Gareth Ward, has thanked the tireless and heroic efforts of volunteers across our region.

“I cannot begin to thank enough our emergency services, Rural Fire Service and volunteers for the incredible job they have done over the past weeks and months protecting the communities throughout the Illawarra and South Coast,” said Mr Ward.

“Thanks to their efforts and hard work countless lives and properties have been saved.

“I also want to thank the countless volunteers that have pitched in to help support the volunteer effort.

“It never ceases to amaze me how at times of disaster our community, our state and our nation pull together.”

He urges everyone to download the NSW Fires Near Me app for their Apple or android devices and have an action plan in place.

“Keep up-to-date by following the RFS Facebook page and stay tuned to your local radio station.”

Mr Ward warns that despite the destruction experienced already, we are only at the beginning of the summer fire season.