After a devastating house fire on Wednesday which gutted their family home, Craig Oaks and Cassandra Inskip are still reeling from the shock.
Before the smoke had time to clear, the Inverell community has rallied behind the couple and their three young children, Zachary (5), Deon (3) and Madison (8 months) with an appeal set up by Ross Hill Public School, with the school already donating $1000 towards the family.
Cassandra said her and Craig were still in shock from the devastation of the fire, but were amazed how quickly people had sprung into action to help them.
“It is great to know people will do that sort of thing, we haven’t really had much time to think about it and absorb the situation really,” Cassandra said.
Principal of Ross Hill, Jenny Murray said the School was inspired to help the family after meeting Cassandra and Zachary earlier in the day at Ross Hill’s orientation day for students starting Kindergarten next year.
“We were shocked when we heard what had happened just after the family left the school orientation day and had a school council meeting last night where it was decided we should start an appeal for the family, with the school as a drop off point for goods and money for the family as we had the space to store and collect items.
“At a P and C meeting later in the evening it was decided we would kick off the appeal by donating $1000 to the family straight away, it is essential at the moment for the family to buy those pantry essentials and supplies for the baby.”
Mrs Murray said the appeal was particularly seeking cash donations at the moment but was putting together a list of items the family needs to set up home again.
“Our priority is to get cash to buy essentials, but all donations are welcomed.
“The proceeds from our Christmas raffle will also be going towards the appeal, anyone interested in donating can contact the school or come into the main office.”
Cassandra said she had many people to thank for their help during the King St fire and directly afterwards.
“A man who works at Landmark Daley, I don’t know his name, ran straight over to the house and started hosing it, Grant Walker and his wife, Ross Worgan, Emma Freebairn, the Salvation Army, Professionals Inverell, the police, fire brigade and ambulance, as well as my family, Ross Hill School and many more.
Sergeant Ross Chilcott from the Inverell Police Station said the fire began at the house in King St in a bedroom of the house.
“The alarm was raised by the five-year-old child and the mother of the three children grabbed them and ran outside.
“A multi-service response from Police, ambulance and fire brigade was not enough to save the house and unfortunately the house was completely gutted and a family dog died.
“Neighbours assisted in fighting the fire and neighbouring properties were evacuated.
“No persons were injured in the fire and everyone was out of the property in time. Unfortunately the occupants were renting and did not have contents insurance, resulting in the loss of all their belongings.”
To donate to the family appeal please call Ross Hill School on 6722 2475. Donations of cash and household goods appreciated.