Tracey Johnston, Mallacoota Fire Brigade Captain
Impacted by the 2019-2020 bushfires, Mallacoota is now seeing a strong recovery with community members playing a big part in its renewal.
Three years on from the devastating bushfires of 2019-2020, Mallacoota is recovering and thriving, yet the blackened trees are a reminder of what could easily happen in a flash.
With a population that swells to around 10,000 during the holiday seasons, Mallacoota was heavily impacted by the 2019-2020 bushfires where many houses were lost, and people had to be evacuated with the help of the Royal Australian Navy.
Three years on, the town is starting to thrive again, with the majority of homes being rebuilt and community members coming together to renew what had been lost. While the fauna and businesses are returning, the blackened trees are a reminder of what can happen in a flash.
We spoke to Mallacoota Fire Brigade Captain Tracey Johnston to learn about her experience during the fires, how the town has recovered and various steps that can be taken to protect your home prior to summer.