AS BUSHFIRES threaten Snowy Valleys communities, Tumut's Royal Hotel publican Greg Kabar says he cannot help but be amazed by the "extraordinary display of heroism" in a time of crisis.
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Almost a dozen towns, including Batlow, Tumbarumba and Adelong, were forced to evacuate ahead of dangerous conditions predicted for Saturday.
But as everyone prepared for the task at hand, Mr Kabar said a scene from Star Wars: Rise of the Skywalker comes to mind.
"The line goes 'Is that a navy .. no that's just people' ... These are just local citizens at the forefront of fighting fires," he said.
"They step above their normal role in society. One day they are just having a drink at the pub and the next fighting incredible fires because it is just what they have to do."
While Tumut is not under threat by the Dunns Road bushfire, Mr Kabar made the decision to evacuate to Wagga as he suffers with asthma.
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He said he did not want to become a nuisance for emergency services down the track. It was only until he reached Wagga that Mr Kabar realised the severity of the conditions back home.
"My eyes were stinging from the dryness and Tumut is shrouded in heavy mist of smoke since new year's. I've been wearing a mask and taking preventatives and I'm short of breath," he said.
Mr Kabar said it was overwhelming to see "the emotion and support" from the Wagga community and surrounds.
"My heart goes out to Batlow because to hear it might be lost is a sobering thought and words you never expect to hear," he said.