Ian has been with the Williwarrin Brigade for 30 years and was off duty on Friday November 8 when the fire impacted the town of Willawarrin and surrounding areas.

"I was at the Willawarrin Hotel because I had been sick and wasn't able to go out and volunteer," Ian said.

"We didn't know it was going to be as bad as it was and then police came to the hotel and told us to evacuate."

Ian found out the next day that his home had been burnt to the ground.

"I heard through word of mouth and figured I wouldn't find much when I came back out here.

"I wasn't allowed back out here on the Saturday because it was all blocked off. I couldn't really say a thing when I did get back out here. I just looked at it and thought well I'm going to have to start again."

Since the fire destroyed his home, Ian has stayed with friends and is now at the Willawarrin Hotel. He has also been supporting his local brigade while they have been out on the fire ground.

"I got crook and wasn't able to go out firefighting because of health reasons but I've been helping out the crew and have been there for them," Ian said.

"I spoke with my crew the other night when they came back and everybody is weary."

Although Ian has had a lot to deal with for the past few weeks, he is remaining positive about the situation.

"I feel for everyone else who has lost their homes. My friends have lost their house, but we'll bounce back," he said.

"My hope is to rebuild here. But it will take time, I'm just being positive at the moment."

The 74-year-old also said as soon as he is able, he will be back out on the ground with the Willawarrin brigade.

"Once they give me permission I'll be out with the brigade again," he said.

"Being in the brigade is ongoing and that will never change for me."

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