ABC News Daily Which houses will survive this bushfire season?
Dec 9, 2025
In this discussion, Sarah Forster, an ABC Central Coast reporter, shares harrowing firsthand accounts from residents during the recent bushfires, detailing their emotional struggles and unexpected losses. Colin Wood, a construction expert on bushfire resilience, highlights how modern building standards can save homes while older ones succumb to flames. They explore the importance of ember protection, construction materials, and practical retrofits that can enhance safety. The conversation underscores the urgent need for preparedness in bushfire-prone areas.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Sudden Evacuations And Limited Escape Routes
- Sarah Forster described residents fleeing with minutes' notice, some running out barefoot and leaving everything behind.
- Many walked across cut railway fences because that was the only escape route available to them.
Prepared Home Still Lost
- Sarah Forster recounted Sarah and Craig Saxon-Gill believing they were prepared yet losing their home completely.
- Their roof sprinkler had no water pressure when needed and their cleared gutters couldn't stop the blaze.
Modern Codes Improve Survival Odds
- Newer homes built to modern bushfire codes tended to survive while older neighbouring houses burned.
- Construction to current standards appears to significantly reduce structural collapse risk during fires.