For the Hardacres, giving back to their community is second nature, so when called upon to aid in the East Gippsland firefight - Darren and his two sons Nathan and Tim answered the call.
They were part of a five-person strike team from Ruby Fire Brigade that supported some of the hardest-hit communities - including Wairewa, a small township north-east of Lakes Entrance.
They said they remained positive even though they witnessed catastrophic conditions.
Watch their story below
Author: CFA News and Media