'I've got nothing left': More homes destroyed in NSW fires
Fire authorities say at least 30 homes have now been destroyed in bushfires burning in New South Wales.
The town of Uarbry has been virtually wiped out, with four homes in a cluster consumed within minutes and the 91-year-old church razed.
“It was very frightening, we actually bolted for about an hour cause it nearly took us out up the road,” resident Dan Morice said.
By Monday night, 23 homes have been destroyed in Warrumbungle, four homes near Port Macquarie, two in Kempsey and one in Narrabri.
A further 67 outbuildings have also been destroyed in those fire grounds.
A local rural fire service captain has lost his home as he was out saving a neighbour’s property when the fire tore through.
Another resident Warren Jarvis was on the brink of tears as he described his loss.
“Me house, shed, all me dog kennels, dogs, 20 head a cattle, mob of sheep, coupla cats… I’ve got nothing left,” he said.
“I’m still picking up dead animals.”
Mr Jarvis was able to save one dog Goldie and a cat.
In Pappinbarra, the Riek family were also worried about the fate of their animals.
“I don’t care about my house … When I saw this one (horse) I was very distressed but they’re saying they might be alright with the right treatment if we can get it,” Helen Riek said.
The horses somehow survived the blaze, but have suffered burns to their legs and faces.
Near Kempsey, a volunteer fire fighter was forced to jump into a dam on her property as the fire raged.
Glendine Kinney hid in the dam for 15 minutes while the fire moved past, with the air outside more than 500 degrees.
“She’s pretty rattled as we all are, and we’re trying to do the best for her and her family,” fire volunteer Graeme Adair said.
The Rural Fire Service will conduct a further sweep of the fire ground on Tuesday, to assess more damage.
Today's top news stories - February 14
