In the aftermath of recent bushfires, most of the Wytaliba community near Glen Innes are trying to get their lives on track.

With over 50 buildings destroyed, including the bridge and local school, Lismore local Jasmine Knight Smith wanted to do something to help the community that she grew up with.

So she started organising a fundraiser for them, to be held at the Station Hotel in South Lismore this Saturday, November 30. 

It’s the first in series of benefit fundraisers that will take place over the next few months.

With a host of performers ready to volunteer their time to the gig, Wytaliba Love is set to bring musical love to the stage from 2pm until 11.30pm.

“Over half the Wytaliba community have no home,” Jasmine said. “Most escaped the fires with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

“I’ve been speaking to friends on Wytaliba and they’re just so grateful that we are going to help them - every little bit helps.

“Many people fled after the fires and are staying with friends and family. 

“Some are down the hill in tents and some are couch surfing in Glen Innes. 

Wytaliba fire. Picture: Vanessa Leishman

Jasmine said she grew up in Wytaliba and has a deep connection to the community.

“My mum was one of first three to live there – she and my dad were part of buying the land there initially in 1979,” she said.

“The house my parents built burned down, and Joe who lived in the house is homeless and will be coming up for the gig on Saturday.

“When the fires approached Wytaliba, it was described as a hurricane of flames and heat - very fast and without warning. 

“I’ve heard incredible stories of bravery and loss - including the loss of two lives, Vivian Chaplain and George Nole.

“George was an eccentric who had worked for NASA on the Apollo Program and Vivian Chaplain was just relentlessly wonderful - she died protecting the animals and home she loved.” 

Jasmine said all proceeds from the benefit gigs will go directly to those affected.

“The money will be divided between those who have lost their homes and some for community infrastructure.

“It will go into the Wytaliba trust account and be divided up by the board of directors . 

Jasmine said Lismore locals Robyn Dein, Cat Reid and Darren Bridge have been helping out with organizing the gig.

The line up for Saturday’s fundraiser includes headlining band Huckleberry Gin [- whose front man Simon Burton hails from Wytaliba.

There will be raffles, a photo display of the property before and after the fire, stories of loss and survival and great music.

There will be no cover charge - donate whatever you can.

Jasmine said information about Wytaliba and upcoming events will be shared on the webpage http://www.wytalibalove.com 

“It’s a work in progress and things will be added as the residents of Wytaliba are more able to share their stories and photos,” she said.

“Right now they’re just trying to find a place to sleep and some clothes for their kids.” 

Wytaliba Love line up:

2:30 John and Matt

3:25 Tradesmyth

4:15 Postmortemists

5:00 Mocri$ and Triple

6:00 Huckleberry Gin

7:00 Queen of the Ants

8:00 HDM

9:00 The Munted

10:00 Baby Fist