The Furnishing Industry Association of Australia in Victoria has offered one family affected by the Kinglake fires a complete furniture package to fully refurbish their home, as well as co-ordinating donations of cash and Australian made furniture worth over $60,000.

Kirsty and Lawson Crisp lost their entire home in the fires.  After fleeing the fires with a two week old son and one week old baby, a relative of the family who previously worked in the furniture industry contacted the FIAA (Vic/Tas) seeking assistance.

John Osmelak, the general manager of FIAA (Vic/Tas) said that the Australian furniture industry is united in looking after the community in a time of need and came together to offer this package.

After finding out about the furniture package, Kirsty said the family visited a manufacturer in Melbourne and "the next week a truck full of furniture turned up!".  The package included a dining table and chairs, a TV unit, bedside tables, a bookcase and more.  Kirsty said:  "It's all really beautiful Australian furniture.  We still can't believe it."

"Something as simple as a bed for my son has made such a difference to our lives.  This is a huge help and relief for us," she said.  The family is currently renting a home near Kinglake, but hope to rebuild on their property within 12 months and take their new furniture with them.

The money and Australian made furniture donated by the industry will be distributed to those affected by the bushfires through the Salvation Army.

From the June 2009 edition of "Bedding"