Those terrible fires in 2023
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Tuesday, October 31, 2023 will forever be etched in our memories here on the farm. As the day progressed, a blanket of smoke enveloped us due to a fire that had ignited on the eastern side of the New England Highway. Concern for those in the path of the fire weighed heavily on my mind. Little did I anticipate that the flames would eventually leap across the highway, sweep through the town, and advance towards our home and farm within a matter of hours.
Throughout the day, we monitored the QFES App closely, only to discover that the fire had breached the road, accelerated its pace, and was now barrelling straight towards the nearby township.
Our farm, situated a few kilometres east of town and surrounded by Girraween National Park, was possibly now in the line of the fire.
By 2pm, the fire had ravaged several residences, scorched the area along the railway line, and encroached upon the local sports field. Evacuation orders were issued without delay.
With no time to relocate our cattle and babydoll sheep, the question of where to shelter them on our 20-acre property meant we just had to hope for the best.
Paul and I had already prepared the car for a swift departure, but we made sure to bring along our two miniature goats as we evacuated. Below is a video I made of our evacuation which was later shared in part by Channel 7. It's part one of our evacuation videos, further videos can be seen on our TikTok page : @Hartleydownsfarm
Following the fire we had the opportunity meet some of the fire fighters and emergency personnel that managed that horrendous fire. We will be forever grateful to all those risking their lives to save our country town.