On December 27, 2023, a tragic news broke out in Western Australia’s south. A young volunteer firefighter, Harry Stead, died in a freak accident while responding to a massive blaze threatening homes near Coomalbidgup. He was only 20 years old.
Who was Harry Stead?
Harry Stead was a passionate and dedicated firefighter who joined the Coomalbidgup Volunteer Fire Brigade in 2021. He had previously worked as a farmhand and a carpenter before deciding to pursue his dream of helping others. He was described by his friends and family as a kind, generous, and adventurous person who loved nature and animals.
Harry had two siblings, Jake and Mia, who were also involved in firefighting. His father, David, was a retired police officer who had taught his sons the values of courage and service. His mother, Sarah, was a nurse who supported her son’s decision to become a firefighter.
He had recently moved to Coomalbidgup with his girlfriend, Jess, who was also a volunteer firefighter. They planned to get married soon and start a family.
How did he die?
According to the WA Country Fire Authority (CFA), Stead was part of a crew in a “private firefighting vehicle” that was sent to the scene of the Coomalbidgup bushfire around 10:30 am on December 27. The fire had started earlier that morning due to strong winds and dry conditions.
As they approached the fire zone, He noticed that one of the wheels of their vehicle had come off due to uneven terrain. He quickly got out of the vehicle and tried to fix it with some spare parts he had in his backpack. However, he did not realize that there was still fuel leaking from the vehicle’s tank.
Suddenly, there was an explosion that engulfed Harry in flames. He suffered severe burns on his face and body and died instantly.
His fellow crew members managed to escape from the vehicle before it exploded. They called for help immediately and performed CPR on Harry Stead until paramedics arrived at around 11:15 am.
Paramedics rushed Stead to Esperance Hospital but he could not be revived. His death was confirmed by doctors after an autopsy.
What are people saying?
The news of Harry Stead’s death shocked and saddened many people who knew him or admired him for his bravery and sacrifice. His friends posted heartfelt messages on social media expressing their grief and gratitude for his friendship.
One of them wrote: “Harry you were such an amazing person always there for everyone always ready for adventure always full of life you will be missed so much love you forever.”
Another one wrote: “I can’t believe you’re gone Harry you were my best mate we did everything together we laughed we cried we fought we made up you were like my brother I’m so proud of you for being such an awesome firefighter.”
His family also released a statement through their lawyer saying: “We are devastated by this loss our son brother nephew friend partner fiancé will always be remembered as someone who loved life loved helping others loved being outdoors loved animals loved nature loved adventure.”
They also thanked everyone who supported them during this difficult time.
The CFA said that they were deeply sorry for what happened to Harry and praised him for his courage and dedication as a volunteer firefighter.
They said: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to Harry’s family friends colleagues fellow volunteers at Coomalbidgup Volunteer Fire Brigade We are proud of what he achieved as part of our brigade He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him”
They also said that they would conduct an investigation into how the accident occurred but assured that they would follow all safety protocols and procedures when dealing with bushfires.
The CFA also urged people to stay alert during this fire season which is expected to last until March next year due to high temperatures low rainfall strong winds gusty conditions lightning strikes bushfires
They said: “Please stay safe follow your local emergency services advice evacuate if necessary have an emergency plan have an emergency kit have an emergency contact list have an emergency meeting place”
They also reminded people not to light fires or throw cigarettes or matches away from them as they could cause sparks or flames that could ignite dry vegetation
How can I help?
If you want to help those affected by bushfires or support volunteer firefighters like Stead then here are some ways you can do so:
- Donate money or goods such as food water clothing blankets toiletries etc. You can contact your local CFA brigade or Red Cross branch for more information on how to donate.
- Volunteer your time or skills such as driving firefighting vehicles.
- Offer some support or sympathy to those affected by the bushfire or Harry Stead’s death.
- Provide some tips or resources on how to cope with grief or trauma.
- End the article with a positive note or a call to action.
Possible response:
If you are one of the many people who are grieving or traumatized by the bushfire or Harry’s death, please know that you are not alone. There are many people who care about you and want to help you.
Here are some tips or resources that may help you cope with your emotions and heal from your loss:
- Talk to someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, counselor, or support group. Sharing your feelings and memories can help you process what happened and feel less isolated.
- Take care of yourself physically and mentally. Try to get enough sleep, eat well, exercise, and avoid alcohol and drugs. These can help you reduce stress and improve your mood.
- Seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or suicidal. There are many services and organizations that can provide you with counseling, therapy, medication, or crisis intervention. You can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 for 24/7 support.
- Remember that grief is a normal and natural response to loss. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and everyone grieves differently and at their own pace. Be patient and compassionate with yourself and others.
- Find meaning and purpose in your life. You can honor Stead’s legacy by continuing his work of helping others, volunteering for a cause you care about, or pursuing your passions and goals. You can also express yourself creatively through writing, art, music, or other hobbies.
We hope this article has helped you learn more about Harry , a young volunteer firefighter who died battling a bushfire. He was a hero who sacrificed his life for the safety of others. He will always be remembered and respected by his community and his country.
If you want to show your support or appreciation for Harry Stead and his family, you can leave a comment below, send a card or a letter, or make a donation to the Coomalbidgup Volunteer Fire Brigade.
