What is it about the story that sticks in your mind:
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For me, the interest in hearing what Kam was faced with in Canada stuck out in my mind. The sheer size and force of the forest fire tested the skills of all the firefighters involved, and to hear a first-hand experience of their work was phenomenal.
Kam spent time explaining the method of attacking the fires and his process of being accepted in the role of helicopter coordinator. It's such a long process and makes you appreciate the work of all firies.
Full story and video: “I've never seen so much fire in all my years.”
What were the challenges in writing this story:
The initial challenge was finding a time to interview Kam. Once he returned to Australia after more than a month in Canada, several bushfires around the Mid Coast district kept him busy.
Once I spoke to Kam, I wanted to ensure that readers could also be informed of how to be fire savvy this summer. This message within the story was challenging as I worked to ensure his words were conveyed properly.
What kind of stories do you love to write:
I thoroughly enjoy writing human interest stories- such as profiles of people in the local community. There are plenty of stories that are yet to be told.
Anything else to add:
Kam rated the Canadian fire as the worst he had seen in his near four decade career. It makes you think about how lucky we are as Australians to avoid forest fires of that magnitude.
Robert Douglas is a journalist with the Manning River Times. If you have a story for him, email robert.douglas@fairfaxmedia.com.au