Children near Melbourne share their experiences

The state of Victoria in Australia experienced some of the worst bushfires in Australia’s history last month. The fires caused devastating destruction and loss of life.

Australian children have been sharing their experiences with schools around the world on an online forum.

Several describe fund raising activities their schools are starting. While some are relaying general news, others are directly affected. One child's father was nearly injured. "I nearly lost my house," says another.

One pupil explains that she lives in Bendigo, an hour and a half from Melbourne. "There was a fire," she says, "and if I took a certain route - well, I might not be typing this."

Children on the forum are sending messages of support for people affected by the fires and the Australian friends they have made online.

One pupil wrote “I feel so sorry for everyone who has lost their families and homes. I want to send them a message - just keep strong and I hope you make it through this terrible time”. Another said “We’re thinking of everyone out there”.

How did they do that?

The students involved are working online through Intuitive Media's Superclubs Plus  (charges apply for full membership, schools can find out more from IM).

Find out more about the Austrailian fires at BBC News and Newsround. 

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