Bushfire memorial at Surfers Point

A commemorative concert will be held at Surfers Point on Sunday to mark 10 years since two devastating bushfires ripped through the coast, destroying homes and chalets. The grim anniversary would become a celebration of community spirit and recovery in the wake of the disaster, sparked when prescribed burns by the State Government’s then-Department of Environment and Conservation lit fires in dangerous, windy conditions which escaped control. Sunday’s event would celebrate recovery and resilience, bringing musicians, Aboriginal custodians, volunteer firefighters and residents together from 4.30pm until sunset. Shire President Paula Cristoffanini said the sundowner was “a fitting way” to reflect on the journey since the 2011 bushfires which destroyed 47 properties, including chalets, and damaged a further 106 homes. “It is so important that we continue to stick together as a community and to recognise the resilience of all those who were impacted,” she said.Sunday’s gathering would also allow Shire of Augusta-Margaret River bushfire officers to talk about preparedness with residents as the deadline for summer clearing work looms at month’s end. The event will start with talks from traditional custodians Dwardanan Vivian Brockman and Waljin Mitchella Hutchins. Alongside music from Dan White and Emjay Angeni, food trucks will circle Surfers Point and residents were encouraged to bring a rug and picnic while sharing stories about the bushfires.