The family home was completely destroyed just before midnight on Saturday.

Firefighters from Cooyal, Gulgong DC and Mudgee HQ rural fire brigades responded, totaling six vehicles and 21 personnel, but the intensity of the blaze fully engulfed the home and it was unable to be saved.

The family were away at the time.

The Botobolar Bulletin Facebook page outlined plans for a fundraising event:

“The Botobolar and Cooyal community will be hosting a fundraising afternoon at the Cooyal Pub this Saturday 3pm to help Shelley, Ado and the kids after they lost their house this past weekend in a devastating house fire. Come along and buy a raffle ticket and have some fun while showing your support. Please let anyone you think may wish to go know about the event.”

Cooyal publican Dave Miller said a “unique feature of rural life is the way people look after each other in what is a tragic event. The support and care within the Cooyal community is outstanding.”

Cooyal hotel has donated all of the food for the event, which community members will cook and sell.

Donations are already stacking up including – loads of wood, hay and even a steer – to auction off on the day.