Ships from the Royal Australian Navy have rescued hundreds of people in one of the largest evacuations in the country's history.
A state of disaster has been declared in Victoria for the first time, as wildfires continue to ravage the country.
Thousands have already fled at-risk coastal areas - including Mallacoota in Victoria which has been cut off for days.
#Mallacoota evacuees are now onboard HMAS Choules. It has been a big day for all involved.
I am so proud of how #YourADF, emergency services, and the community have worked together to safely see this initial operation through. Thank you.
This isn't over, but we stand together. pic.twitter.com/px3jPEgHhX
— Linda Reynolds (@lindareynoldswa) January 3, 2020
Sea transport is the only way for people to be able to get out as road are blocked due to the flames.
"We're really grateful to be able to help essentially a mate in need, it's what we exist for - it's a fellow Australian," said Commander Scott Houlihan who has helped with the evacuations.
"Dare I say it, challenging and severe circumstances out here - but it's quite uplifting to be involved and able to make such a difference."
WATCH AND ACT - BUSHFIRE
Issued for Chandlers Creek, Genoa, Gipsy Point, Karbeethong, Lake View, Mallacoota, Maramingo Creek, Wallagaraugh, Wangarabell, Wingan River, Wroxham.
For more information: https://t.co/SrfPB5yqQw pic.twitter.com/us5FHTpuq3
— VicEmergency (@vicemergency) January 3, 2020
Meanwhile, this woman was one of the people who had been rescued from the beach at Mallacoota:
"It's just been overwhelming. I actually held it together until yesterday when I heard that it could be coming back.
"That's when I had a breakdown. Now we're here, and we're going home and we're seeing our families."
