Tragedy struck in Bulahdelah on the NSW Mid North Coast as John Lohan lost his life after being crushed by a tree and suffering a heart attack while battling a bushfire on Sunday night.
Lohan, aged 59, was a seasoned firefighter, and his passing has left a profound impact on emergency services, the local community, and his family.
Both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns have extended their heartfelt condolences to Lohan’s family.
The relentless bushfire has charred over 4,600 hectares across the Myall Lakes National Park, affecting areas on both sides of the Pacific Highway between Crawford River and Nerong near Bulahdelah.
So far, the fire has led to the destruction of four properties.
On Sunday night, firefighters were engaged in backburning operations aimed at shielding properties on the northern and eastern sides of Nerong.
Lohan was checking on his colleagues when the tree fell on him, Rural Fire Service Commissioner Trent Curtain said.
Police have set up a crime scene and are preparing a report for the coroner.
WorkSafe is investigating.
There are around 1000 NSW National Parks firefighters working alongside the Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue.
Crews are currently fighting dozens of fires across the state in sweltering conditions as temperatures exceed 30 degrees.
A bushfire in Bogee near Lithgow was escalated to an emergency warning this afternoon.
