Bushfires raged through the small Victorian towns of Boolara and Mirboo North in January this year, decimating 6385 hectares of land and claiming 30 houses, 87 sheds and 10 cars. As the community banded together to fight for their homes and memories, Red Cross was there providing personal support and registration at evacuation centres and catering to residents and emergency services personnel. A community united Boolara resident Liz Tyler lives on a street devastated by the fires. While many of her neighbours lost their homes, she said that the crisis had brought the community together. 'People have been talking to one another because they've needed to work together to fight the fires and protect their houses,' Ms Tyler said. 'Our neighbours came across and put out the fire that was only a metre from our window. The three fellows at the top of the hill lost their house but they came down as well. They saved our house,' she said. Maurice Papa of Boolara spent three days with his family in the evacuation centre at Mirboo North. 'Imagine other countries that haven't got this,' Mr Papa said. 'When something happens, at least you've got somewhere to stay and shower and eat and feel safe. That's the best thing; feeling safe.' A commitment to care Peter McHugh from the Department of Sustainability and Environment praised the capacity of the community in laying the groundwork for the long-term recovery.

Boolara resident Maurice Papa fought as long as he could before evacuating to the Mirboo North centre. Emotions run high among residents at the Mirboo North community meeting.

'It's connectedness that gives communities strength and often Red Cross and others can be the glue that helps stick people together and encourage people to look in on their neighbour,' Mr McHugh said.

'It's the sort of work Red Cross does. It's incredibly under-sung but incredibly powerful in terms of rebuilding.'

'Our neighbours came across and put out the fire that was only a metre from our window. The shed's burnt down but that's nothing.' - Liz Tyler

Boolara resident Ash douses the flames of one of the many spot fires near his property.

'I'm just worried about my three little chooks and my tomatoes.' - Alan Foster

Barb McDevitt was escorted back to her property by fire truck. Her husband was hospitalised with burns to his face and hands.