Thankfully, no-one was killed or seriously injured.

Three families lost six homes; 45 were saved by firefighters. 1200 hectares of land was burnt. Outbuildings and fencing were destroyed.

This short but shocking video by the Tumbledown Dick Rural Fire Brigade, shared with the Wauchope Gazette, gives some idea of the terrifying conditions faced by firefighters. 

They came from the Northern Beaches, and protected properties in Pappinbarra to support local NSWRFS and FRNSW units already heavily engaged that Sunday.

When they arrived, temperatures were reported as 47 celsius and 7% humidity with strong winds driving the fire in an easterly direction towards Beechwood. Later, reports of temperatures were between 55celsius and 70celsius on the fireground.

The video shows the Strike Team responding through Beechwood into Pappinbarra Road where the tankers were deployed to provide immediate property protection.

Tumble was then moved back through Pipeclay Road onto Roelands Drive and set for property protection at the rural properties in the path of the fire.

Once the southerly hit, Tumble was redeployed back to Pappinbarra Road and the video shows Tumble pushing forward to properties and units along Ocean Valley Road which is off Pappinbarra Road, pausing whilst the fire front crossed the road and then continuing.

The Strike Team remained working in Pappinbarra Road till relieved around midnight by incoming Strike Teams, returning to Sydney the following day.

They could see many good saves by earlier crews who defended against the strong westerly winds when they were back at the same houses protecting against the strong southerlies later in the day.

The efforts of the fire fighters, support teams and partner agencies enabled many homes to be successfully protected through the evening, and the fire to be pulled up around many.

Tumble’s thoughts are with the residents and community who have been impacted by this fire and those who have lost so much.