Expat tells about fighting bushfire across Australia

Expat tells about fighting bushfire across Australia

12 February 2020

A NEWCASTLE expat has told how he and his wife helped to fight some of the recent Australian bushfires.

Volunteer firefighter Anthony Witton spoke of seeing at first hand the damage caused by the fires as he attended a pub quiz in the Anchor Bar organised by Newcastle Lions Club.

He shared his experiences during a visit home with his wife Dawn to see his parents and other family members at the event which was held by the Lions Club in response to help people affected.

Mr Witton returned home with £400 to help his local community. 

Lions president Marian McGreevy thanked Anthony for his work and told how the Lions International had also donated $150,000 to the worldwide appeal. 

Marian then invited Pat McGarry, watch commander at Newcastle NI Fire and Rescue Service, to say a few words. 

Pat spoke of his admiration for the work of the Australian fire service and told Anthony that everyone was thinking of them and the terrible experience they had faced.

Newcastle Lions are continuing with their preparations for their tool and spectacle collection on Saturday, 7 March. 

The Lions are looking for broken or good tools, electric or treadle sewing machines and spectacles. 

The off point will be in the car park at the vacant Steele’s butcher’s shop in Railway Street, which the Lions will occupy for one day. 

Newcastle Lions would like to express their thanks to Damian Small at Pre Loved, Second Hand Goods, for making this possible. 

If you cannot manage or need help, heavy donations can be collected by the Lions by contacting 07725 725932.