Black Saturday is Australia's worst national disaster with 210 dead and others perhaps still missing. Over 1800 homes were destroyed along with hopes and dreams of a peaceful community living in the leafy hills on Melbourne's fringes. BLACK SATURDAY is a tale of everyday people who, when fate demanded, became heroes. In Kinglake, Peter Thorneycroft stood defiantly in shorts and thongs hosing down the roof of the local pub where 20 women and children sheltered inside. In Marysville, five policemen saved the lives of countless residents as they ignored burning embers raining from the sky and ushered them to the safety of the local cricket oval. The fires also brought a new-found resilience. Those most affected by the fires have found hope amongst the ash - for a brighter, safer tomorrow. This book is the personal story of Black Saturday told by those that survived the flames and those who came to their help. It also contains accounts from journalists who covered the fires as well as first-hand tales from those who helped co-ordinate the emergency response. Further news on the Victorian Bushfires: At the time of printing Black Saturday, it was understood that 210 people had perished in the Victorian bushfires in February 2009. This number has been revised to 173 as at Monday, 6 April 2009. All proceeds from the sale of this book (apart from the GST component) are being donated to The Salvation Army Victorian Bushfire Appeal. By purchasing this book you are assisting The Salvation Army to continue to extend care to those devastated by these fires.