Australians dig deep for Bushfire victims

By Jonathan Creek.

"It's been such an uplifting thing and I think our role is to mobilise the power of humanity, get people to come forward, step up to the plate to help one and another in times of crisis," said the Chief Executive of the Red Cross, Robert Tickner.

"There are some powerful lessons here about the way we can move forward, living our lives and the way we operate in this country. We can keep this spirit alive," he added.

So far the Red Cross Victorian Bushfire Appeal has raised more than $80 million, but much more is needed.

Some of the biggest names in showbusiness have joined the appeal - far from home, they have the bushfire disaster close to their hearts.

But back in Australia, Sarah Lukas isn't rich and famous; she's a mother of two from suburban Adelaide. A survivor of the Ash Wednesday fires, the 42 year old was determined to do something.

With the help of Today Tonight, Sarah has filled two semi-trailers with food, toys and clothes and the goods were delivered to the Victorian town of Yarra Glenn this afternoon.

In the scheme of things it's a small offering, but to Sarah it means a lot.

Then there's Robert Finkeldey, Managing Director of whocando.com.au

He has a database of 15,000 tradesmen - many willing to work for free and eager to kick-start the re-building process.

"All you have to do is go to the website, post the job you need doing and we will take care of the rest, forward the job to the relevant tradespeople, who will contact you," Robert said.

And painter Grant Fethers jumped at the idea.

"I was completely devastated by what happened down there and I thought I could donate money, but probably better if I can use my services to help people instead," Grant said.

 As a nation we're often accused of cutting down our tall poppies, but in times of crisis, we rally like no other country in the world.

"I think ever since these bushfires, this terrible tragedy that's happened, the Australian public has just been sensational," said Shane Warne.

And there's more fundraising to come. Music promoter Michael Gudinski is organising concerts in Sydney and Melbourne and it is rumoured Kylie Minogue will perform. Even Andre Rieu will donate proceeds from a new song.

For many, the physical and mental scars of this tragedy will last a lifetime, but the kindness and generosity of strangers will go along way to repairing those broken hearts.

How to donate to the Victorian Bushfires Appeal

Source: TodayTonight, Broadcast Date: February 13, 2009