Bushfire Resilience Day takes on renewed significance after recent fires
13/02/2026
Bushfire Resilience Day takes on renewed significance this year, with recent fires highlighting the tragic and lasting impact bushfires have on South Australian lives, homes and the environment.
Bushfire Resilience Day is a time for communities to reflect on past bushfires, learn from shared experiences, and strengthen their preparedness for future seasons.
For the past fortnight, the South Australian Country Fire Service (CFS) and supporting agencies have been responding to the Deep Creek fire on the Fleurieu Peninsula, which ignited just days after a nearby fire at Tooperang had been declared controlled.
Together, the two incidents have burnt nearly 5,000 hectares, destroying two homes, causing significant property loss, and resulting in extensive environmental damage.
In November last year, CFS firefighter Peter Curtis died while working as part of a National Parks and Wildlife Service brigade on the state's West Coast.
His passing has deeply affected the emergency services community and is a solemn reminder that every day firefighters risk their lives to protect South Australian communities.
CFS Chief Officer Brett Loughlin AFSM said Bushfire Resilience Day is an important opportunity acknowledge both the devastating impact of bushfires and the vital role of preparation and resilience.
"In the aftermath of a bushfire there are many costs, and sometimes these are deeply tragic," Chief Officer Loughlin said. "While the impact of bushfires can be devastating, we continue to see how preparation and resilience make a real difference."
"During the recent Deep Creek Fire, properties that were well-prepared either stood strong or were able to be defended by crews, showing what's possible when communities take steps to reduce their risk."
Chief Officer Loughlin said the day encourages South Australians reflect on lessons learned and take proactive steps to strengthen their own preparedness.
"During the recent Fleurieu fires we have seen multiple examples where preparation meant properties were saved and reflected the bushfire resilience of our communities," Mr Loughlin said.
"Preventative risk reduction and preparation in at-risk areas gives you and your family the best chance of survival when the next incident arrives on your doorstep, and I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to create a bushfire survival plan."
Today's Bushfire Resilience Day commemoration was hosted by the Wasleys Bowling Club and member Brad McDougall has personal knowledge of the damage a bushfire can cause, with the club almost destroyed by the Pinery fires in November 2015.
"Part of the resilience we gained was the need to be informed should a fire like this ever happen again, focusing on areas of concern that need to be addressed, not only as a club but as a community," Mr McDougall said. "You never ever take it for granted that it can't happen again."
South Australian Emergency Services Minister Rhiannon Pearce said regional South Australians have lived with the reality of bushfires for generations, but the toll they take should never be underestimated.
"It's always in the back of your mind to take advantage of the lessons learnt from the Pinery fire, and work on what still might need to be implemented," Minister Pearce said.
"Bushfire Resilience Day is an opportunity for people and communities affected by bushfires to come together and share their experiences.
"It is also an opportunity to build bushfire resilience by highlighting the importance of preventative risk reduction and preparation for the next bushfire."
For more information regarding media opportunities, please contact CFS.communications@eso.sa.gov.au
