The Channel community gathered together in Snug on Friday, February 7 to mark the 53rd anniversary of the 1967 Black Tuesday fires that devasted much of Hobart and almost wiped out the community of Snug.
Held at the memorial built at Snug in 2017, members of Snug Volunteer Fire Brigade, Channel Volunteer Fire Brigade, local government including Cr David Grace and Daniel Hulme and members of the close-knit community gathered to pay their respects in a memorial ceremony.
David Archer, organiser of the event, member of the Snug Brigade since 1969 and survivor of that tragic day, reflected on the events that touched him personally, giving those gathered a glimpse of what it was like for so many whose lives were forever changed.
In total, 64 people lost their lives that day, 11 in Snug alone.
Over 7,000 people were left homeless, with over 600,000 acres burnt and approximately 80,000 head of stock perished.
With 110 fires burning around the state the previous day, the disastrous fires were fuelled by high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds which combined to cause such a terrifying event.
“Those people who stayed and rebuilt had the ANZAC spirit like our forefathers,” Mr Archer stated.
“They fought the battle and got on with their lives.”
Graeme Millhouse was one of the residents of Snug who faced this battle in the aftermath of the destruction and paid tribute to Jim Gilles and the Carbide Works who played a large part in helping the community to rebuild, supporting workers and families to get back on their feet.
Mr Archer extended sincere condolences on behalf of everyone to the families and friends of the 34 people who have lost their lives over the past months in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and ACT.
Sentiments from Snug Brigade Chief William Bylett and Mr Archer were that of gratitude and pride in the tireless and courageous efforts that the volunteer fire fighters contribute to their communities in time of need.
“We can never, not appreciate the work that our volunteers do,” said Mr Archer.
“They are our true heroes.”
Pictured aboveMembers of Snug Volunteer Fire Brigade, Channel Volunteer Fire Brigade, local government and the close-knit Channel community gathered together in Snug on Friday, February 7 to mark the 53rd anniversary of the 1967 Black Tuesday fires.
