Press Release

Two Filipinos died in the recent Australian bushfires in Yarra Glen inferno on Saturday, 7 February. They were Melanie Hermocilla and Jaeson Hermocilla, brother and sister who were in their early twenties. They perished together with Greg Lloyd who was Melanie's boyfriend. All victims were students at Monash University.

Herald Sun, reported that the three were just house sitting for Llyod's father who was away during the time of the disaster.

'There were no fires in the area when they arrived at the house, but extreme heat and a change of wind brought the raging flames that took their lives.'

It was said that Lloyd called his dad and was told to seek advice from the CFA .He did but with the fires, the most ferocious in Victoria's history, "the three stood little chance of surviving, let alone escape."

Stephanie Kounelis, who is the friend of Melanie, Greg and Jaeson, said that the three were able to get out a last message of love before the fire claimed their lives.

Friends said that a memorial service would be organized at Monash Univerisity for the three students.

Friends and relatives agree that they will be 'missed dearly' because of their positive attitudes and a happy disposition in life.'

The Filipino community in Victoria is sharing the loss, pain and sadness of the victims' family and relatives; and the magnitude of the unforseen tragedy that swept across Victoria.

see also...FCCVI BUSH FIRE APPEAL