By Steph McNicol
A FUNDRAISER to support the recovery of a family devastated by a Tyaak house fire has raised more than $206,000.
The fire, which broke out at a family holiday house near Broadford on June 6, killed 33-year-old Michael Holmes and his six-year-old son Louis.
A 34-year-old man who was staying with the family was also killed and several others were injured, including five children aged one to five.
Mr Holmes leaves behind his partner Nicci and their two sons, Rafael and Harvey, who are recovering in hospital in the Intensive Care Unit from ‘horrific injuries’.
An online fundraiser organised by family and friends was posted online after the fire to help support the family’s recovery and pay for medical bills.
Tributes by the organisers remembered Mr Holmes as a hero and a devoted family man.
“He truly was a role model … He was devoted to his family and worshipped the ground they walked on,” the tribute read.
“He showed this in his actions during the devastating fire – giving up his own life in order to do all he could to save each and every person that night.
“For this, Michael will always be remembered as a hero by his friends and family.”
The tribute remembered Louis as a ‘cheeky, funny, gentle and patient’ young boy.
“He, also like his dad, was competitive and wanted to hang out with the guys, he showed us what true love meant and enjoyed every second of his life,” the tribute read.
A statement released by the family said they were heartbroken over the tragedy, which took away three members of their family.
“Our families are heartbroken over the tragedy that happened, we are still dealing with the devastation in our own time and making sure that those affected have the support and love that is so much needed during this time,” the statement read.
“The people we lost were loving, beautiful members of our families, they were extremely loved and always there for anybody who needed them.
“We will remember them this way.”
The family thanked doctors and emergency service workers who continued to support them.
People wanting to support the family can donate money online at http://chuffed.org/project/lets-help-this-beautiful-family.
