About 7pm - just days before Christmas - we watched our beloved home fill with smoke and flames.
- Bernie Clark
A family of six is living in emergency accommodation after their house was destroyed less than a week before Christmas.
On December 19 Bernadette Clark and her partner Michael Gala were at their Framlingham home.
"About 7pm - just days before Christmas - we watched our beloved home fill with smoke and flames," she said.
The couple and Ms Clark's children - Kane, 28, Tamika, 20, Tamara, 15, and Kiah, 14 - watched on helplessly as the fire gutted their home.
"We watched all our belongings burning in front of us, knowing there was nothing we could do," Ms Clark said.
"All we have left now are precious memories."
The fire was believed to have been caused by an electrical fault.
Ms Clark said she hopes to rebuild the home.
"We are hoping to rebuild but it's going to take over a year," she said.
"We're looking for a private rental to live (in) until then."
Ms Clark's cousin Alice Ugle started a GoFundMe page for the family.
She said it was heartbreaking the family was left without a home just days before Christmas.
"If you could spare anything to this lovely family during the holiday season, to ensure they can have somewhat of a positive holiday and bring some spirit and hope to them, they would be forever grateful," Ms Ugle said.
Generous community members have donated more than $16,000 to help the family get back on their feet.
The target of $10,000 was surpassed in the first 24 hours after the GoFundMe campaign was created. "From the bottom of our heart, we wish to thank each and everyone of you who have contributed and reached out offering your support," Ms Ugle said in an update on the page.
Ms Clark said she had been blown away by the generosity of others.
"We are extremely grateful to all the organisations and people who have donated to the GoFundMe (campaign)," Ms Clark said.
"It has helped us through this very devastating time.
"I believe no family should have to go through this at any time - let alone just before Christmas."
The family is also seeking donations of household goods and clothing.
You can support the family by making a donation here.
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Monique Patterson
I'm a journalist with more than 15 years experience. I currently work at The Standard in Warrnambool. If you have anything to add to this story please contact me at mpatterson@warrnamboolstandard.com.au
I'm a journalist with more than 15 years experience. I currently work at The Standard in Warrnambool. If you have anything to add to this story please contact me at mpatterson@warrnamboolstandard.com.au
