BlazeAid is a volunteer-based organisation that works with farmers and families in rural Australia after natural disasters such as fires and floods.

Running Stream Camp Coordinator Andy Welch said they were there to help all properties affected by the fires with boundary and internal fencing.

"We currently have more than 50 properties registered that have had fences damaged or destroyed by the fires that began prior to Christmas," he said.

Property owners are asked where possible to supply materials, however BlazeAid can assist in a limited manner to help with materials.

"Otherwise our volunteers are providing free labour to help rebuild property fences," he said.

Mr Welch said they are always actively seeking more property owners that may not have registered with BlazeAid.

"We encourage anyone that has not registered to drop into the Cafe in Running Stream to discuss how we can help," he said.

BlazeAid has taken out a three month lease at the Café, however, according to Mr Welch their ethos is 'We are here until the last property has had their fences rebuilt, it's a marathon, not a sprint!".

At the current time due to COVID-19 restrictions, their camp is restricted to 15-20 volunteers.

"Some of our volunteers have their own caravan or campervans, however, we have two bedrooms with linen, pillows and duvets inside the Cafe and have erected three swift shelters complete with power, heater, air mattress and minus five degree sleeping bags," he said.

With the introduction of Swift Shelters and limits on number of volunteers, the group is now comfortable with accommodations.

However, Mr Welch said loaned caravans are very welcome.

BlazeAid has also been awarded by the Queen, a Commonwealth Point of Light citation for the ongoing work they have done for Australian communities.

If you want to get involved contact Running Stream Cafe.

Subscribing means more than just website access. Read the print paper online, enter giveaways and more for just $2 a week, cheaper than a coffee. What are you waiting for?