General News
17 January, 2025
Locals help local after devastating house fire
A well regarded Warracknabeal woman, Dawn Clarke 70, began Christmas without a home after a fire ripped through her property at 4 Kelsall Street in Warracknabeal on the Friday night of December 20, believed to be caused by a charging system or battery on a mobility scooter, on charge on her home verandah.
The home called 'Cardinia' was originally built by Shire Engineer, Rudolph Long in 1907 and was viewed to be a 'show house' in its day, according to historical records.
CFA fire investigator Ken Peters believes the fire broke out at the west side of her home at 10.25pm, after a mobility scooter that was charging caught alight. The fire quickly spread up the wall and into the roof of the vintage brick and timber home.
It soon spread throughout the rear of her home, leaving her trapped at the front door with passers by needing to break down the front door to rescue her.
Three CFA units responded to the scene with police and Powercor also requested to attend to disconnect power to the home.
Much of the rear of the property and her contents have been damaged, not only by the fire, but also by smoke and water damage.
The incident was declared under control at 11.08pm and safe at 12.42am.
Unfortunately, Ms Clarke recently found it increasingly difficult financially and became uninsured due to the rising cost of the insurance, so work friend and community member Mandy Bryce has taken it upon herself to create a fundraising bank account to help Dawn get back on her feet.
"I decided to try and get a bit of money together to help her to buy what she needs at least in the short term," Ms Bryce said.
"Dawn has been a carer for other people all of her life, and after her devastating event it's about time to give her a hand, as she has cared for many people over the years, including her father and sister who is now in permanent care," she said.
To donate, the bank account details are as follows: Dawns Fire Account, CBA BSB-067872, account number 20163962.