Tragedy often brings people together and this time it has brought two countries together to help each other in a time of need.
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For the last month, members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and Indonesian Defence Force (IDF) have been working closely with the Indigenous population on bush fire recovery, following the recent Gospers Mountain mega fire.
In Lithgow, a total of 43 IDF corporals were tasked out to work collaboratively with the ADF and help to refurbish cultural sites, clear dangerous trees and help the community get back on their feet.
ADF Major Simon Roeder said the corporals identified things they could help out with as well as tending to requests made by the community.
"We do our best to balance the requests and get out there and into action," he said.
Over the last few weeks corporals have been working with Mingaan Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation to help with the recovery process at Maiyingu Marragu (The Hands).
Sgt Roeder said one of the main things the ADF did was work with the Indigenous population wherever they operate.
"They are integrated within us in the Australian Defence Force and I think it was very poignant for the Indonesian Defence Force to see the history of just how long the Indigenous people have been working here.
"We have all been working together, the ADF, IDF and the Indigenous community, and it's been wonderful," he said.
On Thursday, February 27 the troops painted posts at The Hands that were damaged by the fire.
Australian Army Corporal James Bannon said it felt good to be able to help out.
"It makes us feel good and we're all working together and seeing what else they [Mingaan] need help with," he said.
In recognition of their work, Mingaan Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation's Aunty Sharon Riley presented Sgt Roeder and IDF Sergeant Ferris Kamesrar with a certificate of appreciation.
"We really appreciate the work you have been doing with us, it's pretty special," she said.
"On behalf of Mingaan Wiradjuri Aboriginal Corporation, we would like to show our appreciation for your support with bushfire recovery in our sacred place Maiyingu Marragu."
Ms Riley said Mingaan were honoured to have worked alongside the ADF and IDF and valued their input.
"It's been good and it's been an honour to work with the ADF and international visitors and teach them about our heritage and our country and the importance about here [The Hands]," she said.
She said it was also a rare occasion that has never happened before.
"It's really good for two countries to come together for a significant event in time, fires are not a good reason but for the recovery process of things, it's worked out really well," she said.
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