Rebuilding Toodyay
Samantha Connor
 SIX months on, Toodyay is a very different place.
The blackened ground where the fires swept through on December 29, 2009 tells its own tale. On the fire ground, grass trees have almost completely regenerated and new growth has emerged from trees and seed.
But out in the community, Toodyay is very different from the Toodyay of 2009. Hardworking community groups have learned anew that they are ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Bushfire survivors are coping with a myriad of differing situations, including rebuilding homes, the emotional recovery process and other difficulties. And a different direction in local government has meant a new approach to key issues like planning and development.
At a public meeting held to commemorate the six month anniversary of the Toodyay bush fires, Recovery Committee Coordinator Charlie Wroth said that it was difficult to believe that it had been six months since the fires.
“I don't know if you can celebrate a disaster, but you can certainly celebrate a milestone,” he said.
Joined by representatives from the Red Cross, Bendigo Bank, Salvation Army, local and federal government, members of the Recovery Committee talked about their involvement over the past six months, where the funds had been distributed and plans for the future. 
Federal Member for Pearce, the Hon Judi Moylan MP said that it had been inspiring to see how the community had pulled together and offered her ongoing support.
“There are still ongoing issues that we can help you resolve,” she said. “Federal assistance includes assisting with Centrelink issues and the Insurance Council to assist with insurance problems.”
Private investigator Paul Allardyce threw the heat back onto Western Power, saying that he had conclusive evidence that power lines caused the Toodyay bushfire. Mr Allardyce started an inquiry in February and received assistance from the Toodyay Police, the Arson Squad and from Australian and overseas experts.
Bushfire survivors and event organisers also addressed the meeting in an emotional tribute to Toodyay's community spirit.
 “It was like a dream that had broken for me when the fire ripped through my home, and I really thought about just putting up a for sale sign and leaving,” said Colleen Sheehan.
“I'm happy to say that I've just moved back into my home. The community in this town is amazing and I wouldn't dream of leaving this town. Thank you, Toodyay.”
The event included a display of photographs, memorabilia and stories from people who had been affected by the fire.
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