Tragic Loss in Australian Wildfire Battle

A firefighter tragically died after being struck by a falling tree while battling a wildfire near Bulahdelah, New South Wales. Over the weekend, wildfires destroyed approximately 40 homes across New South Wales and Tasmania. Fire crews continue battling blazes, with several fires still raging out of control.

A firefighter has tragically lost his life combating devastating wildfires that have ravaged approximately 40 homes across Australia, officials reported on Monday.

The 59-year-old was fatally injured by a falling tree while fighting a significant blaze near Bulahdelah, New South Wales, which destroyed four homes and 3,500 hectares of woodland over the weekend, confirmed Rural Fire Service Commissioner Trent Curtin.

Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. Crews anticipate days of continued firefighting efforts, Curtin added. Meanwhile, 52 wildfires were burning across New South Wales on Monday; nine remained uncontrolled, destroying 20 homes during the weekend. In Tasmania, a fire consumed 19 homes in Dolphin Sands, and though contained, access remains restricted, local official Dick Shaw told ABC.