Cheers for a true blue Aussie hero

No, it wasn't "climate change" as some politicians and media headlines proclaimed at the time.

As I said in my article written after that unforgettable night:

Not unexpectedly the fires here, in the Gold Coast hinterland, other parts of Queensland and New South Wales, have sparked the usual outcry from some media commentators and politicians blaming "climate change". This includes the Greens' Adam Bandt and even Jackie Trad, in her short role as Acting Queensland Premier.

Well, climate change doesn't provide matches or lighters, and the real tragedy is that the Peregian fire and a number of others were deliberately lit. Two teenagers have been charged with starting the Peregian blaze and police have set up a special task force to investigate, with about 10 so far identified as having been maliciously or negligently ignited.

"Idiots" seems a mild term for the firebugs, given the risk to lives, property and defenceless slaughtered and maimed wildlife. While kids might be responsible for "accidentally" starting some fires, one has to wonder at the motivation of any adult or teenager old enough to know right from wrong. The punishment should fit the crime.

Let's hope there will be no repeats over a predicted long, hot summer.