If you are wishing to help the bushfire victims then please, as a first step, donate blood or money. 

The 2009 Victorian Bushfire Fundhas been launched bythe Victorian Premier John Brumby in partnershipwith the Red Cross and the Federal Government. Donations can be made at www.redcross.org.au or by phoning 1800 811 700.

All NAB branches will collect donations from tomorrow, or donations can be made using online banking and these details: Victoria Bushfire Relief Fund; BSB: 082-001; Account: 860 046 797.

The Salvation Army has launched an appeal to help bushfire victims as well as those affected by flooding in North Queensland.They will help those in relief centres with support as well as provide emergency financial assistance to enable people to buy clothing and personal items. Monetary donations are preferred: call 13 Salvos (137258) or go to www.salvos.org.au.

You can share your thoughts and feelings with the victims of the Victorian fire tragedy through “The Age” Condolence book.

You can volunteer to help rebuild communities affected by bushfires by registering with Volunteering Australia. 

If you have expert IT skills or new computers, modems, printers etc, you can donate through the infoxchange and the Australia Information Industry Association.