Wytaliba and Torrington Communities Start To Rebuild Following Devastating Bushfires

WYTALIBA, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 14: Wytaliba resident and wildlife carer Gary Wilson pats an Eastern Gray Kangaroo on January 14, 2020 in Wytaliba, Australia. Gary and with his partner Julie Willis look after animals on their property, which was saved from the fire after the couple defended their small home. They are looking after some 50-60 kangaroos in the wake of the bushfire. On the afternoon of November 8, 2019, firestorms ripped through the small communities of Wytaliba and Torrington, leaving two dead and scores of homes destroyed. In Wytaliba the devastation was almost complete, making it ground zero for the bushfire crisis that since has gripped NSW and Victoria. Local resident Vivian Chaplain died while trying to save her home and George Nole died in his car trying to escape the inferno. For Wytaliba residents, only a few community buildings remain, while those that have returned are living in tents or temporary shelters without power or running water. The local primary school, burnt in the fire, is being rebuilt and is due to take students for the new school year in late January. Built on a former cattle ranch in the late 1970's, Wytaliba was a place for people who seek peace and solitude outside of the mainstream. This usually private community open their doors to show the immense challenges they now face in rebuilding. (Photo by Brook Mitchell/Getty Images)