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 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-time friend Josie Watson said some of the couple’s pets did not survive, and most of their belongings had 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,” Ms Watson said.
“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.
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 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 on Saturday, at a home south of Mathoura.
Crews from Mathoura RFS brigade attended and were assisted by Moama RFS and Fire and Rescue.
Upon arrival, firefighters found the house 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 property’s remote location,” Supt Whitehorn said.
“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 to help Cameron and Katie, go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/ds2d9b-help-cam-and-katie-get-back-on-their-feet?qid=89c3e8a00dcc2eda33c9d6801b8a4332