A Mathoura couple’s home has been completely destroyed after a fire broke out on Saturday morning.
Cameron McDonald and Katie Nightingale woke to their smoke alarm sounding in the very early hours of the morning, and were able to make an escape mostly unharmed.
They were both taken to hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.
Long term friend Josie Watson said some of the couple’s pets did not survive, and most of their belongings have been destroyed.
“Katie is obviously so devastated they weren’t able to save some of their pets, but we are so thankful they (Katie and Cam) were able to walk away okay,” said Ms Watson.
“They are really struggling to come to terms with it all right now.
“They have not been able to return to the house yet, so they have no idea if anything is salvageable.
“Right now they only have the clothes on their back.”
Ms Watson has set up a GoFundMe page to help the couple get back on their feet.
The community has already raised $4050 for the couple.
While the goal amount is $6000, Ms Watson is hoping to raise “as much as we can” for the pair.
“I couldn’t imagine what they are going through,” she said.
“I set the $6000 goal not really knowing what to ask for, but that will really only really buy them a washing machine, fridge and some more appliances.
“So anything people can do to help them rebuild is greatly appreciated.”
Mathoura Rural Fire Service received the call for a structure fire about 2.15am Saturday, at a home south of Mathoura.
Crews from Mathoura RFS brigade attended and were assisted by Moama RFS and Fire + Rescue.
Upon arrival firefighters found the house already three-quarters engulfed in flames.
Using breathing apparatus equipment, crews performed an external attack on the fire, which took an hour to control.
Unfortunately there was nothing the attending crews could do to save the remainder of the house.
NSW RFS Mid Murray Zone Superintendent Tony Whitehorn said the homeowners were lucky to escape with their lives.
“The real observation from this is that smoke alarms do save lives,” Supt Whitehorn said.
“It’s an absolute tragedy the homeowners have lost their home, but the smoke alarm being activated allowed them to escape.”
Supt Whitehorn said the responding firefighters faced a number of challenges upon arrival at the property.
“Crews battled lack of water supply due to the properties remote location,” said Supt Whitehorn.
“A Mid Murray Zone support brigade assisted on the scene by supplying bulk water, but the freezing conditions also kept freezing up the hose line.”
If you would like help Cameron and Katie, go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/ds2d9b-help-cam-and-katie-get-back-on-their-feet?qid=89c3e8a00dcc2eda33c9d6801b8a4332.