First tragic casualty of Australia’s bushfire season: Volunteer firefighter dies battling blaze as colleagues try to save him
A volunteer firefighter has died while battling a blaze in NSW.
The fireman was with his crew at Bean Creek near Kyogle when he suffered a ‘medical episode’ on Saturday.
Other members of the NSW Rural Fire Service attempted first aid until paramedics arrived at the scene, but the man could not be revived.
A NSW Rural Fire Service volunteer has died while battling a blaze near Kyogle (stock)
“This is a terrible tragedy where a volunteer helping to protect his community has paid the ultimate sacrifice,” said RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and fellow firefighters at this terrible time.
“We are offering every assistance to his family and colleagues in the brigade.”
Firefighters had been battling the grass fire on Bean Creek Road since Saturday afternoon and had just brought the blaze under control, the RFS said.
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