A determined Tasmanian student has arrived by boat to his year 10 formal after a nearby bushfire threatened to derail the milestone event for dozens of students at St Helens District High School.
Images from the ABC show Rory Alexander making the journey across the water from the fire-affected Stieglitz area, where his formal suit remained packed away at home behind roadblocks.
The bushfire between Stieglitz and Dianas Basin has scorched more than 1,000 hectares, destroyed two houses and forced widespread evacuations, cutting off access to the original venue.
With the planned formal at Parkside Bar suddenly unreachable due to road closures and power outages, school staff and community members quickly worked to save the special event for 65 students and staff.
In less than 48 hours, they transformed the school’s general purpose room into a suitable venue, sourcing decorations, tables and even matching the original menu with food from local restaurants.
The Tasmania Fire Service has now issued a “return with caution” bushfire advice warning for Parkside, Parnella, Stieglitz, Akoroa and surrounds.
Residents returning to homes are urged to remain vigilant and to watch for signs of fire re-ignition such as smoke and flames.
Authorities say people must stay alert to potential dangers including falling trees or property damage and to drive carefully while following directions from emergency services.
