Rising from the ruins

GEMMA and Daniel O’Brien have been overwhelmed by the support they received from the community after their Lismore Heights home burnt down on Australia Day.

More than $30,000 has been raised so far to help the family get back on their feet via a GoFundMe page set up by a friend.

With five children starting back at school this week, the family also received generous donations of uniforms.

“It’s insane the amount of support we have received from the community – people we know, people we don’t,” Gemma said. “Our school communities, St Carthage’s Primary School, Trinity Catholic College and St Joseph’s Coraki have been incredible organising uniforms for them. They won’t go back and feel like they normally do, but they will definitely look the part.”

Gemma, who works at Trinity, was also grateful to the firefighters who tried for hours to control the blaze, despite not being able to access the fire hydrant at the front of the house because it was blocked with dirt and debris. The family, who had renovated their kitchen only last year, are now staying with Daniel’s parents at Richmond Hill while they work out their next move.

“We honestly have no plans yet,” Gemma said. “It was an old house that had been in the family since Daniel’s grandfather Roy purchased it in 1964, but it was in a beautiful location with amazing views. Sloping blocks of land are very expensive to build on though.

“Our main focus is the immediate future, making sure the kids are somewhat settled, happy and safe.”

Gemma described the experience of losing their home and nearly all their belongings as surreal.

“Some days are better than others and are easier to just get on with life, others tend to be a bit teary,” she said. “It’s the last thing we expected would ever happen to our family.”

The cause of the fire is unknown, but the couple are hoping forensics from their insurance company may shed some light.

To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/daniel-and-gemma-obrien-house-fire-destroys-home