North Stradbroke Island in south-east Queensland is back in business after fires swept through parts of the island’s native bush land.
All businesses, retail shops, cafes, restaurants and accommodation providers are functioning as usual and all roads have re-opened. All ferry services and water taxis are operational.
"The bushfires were severe but we recovered quickly and are ready to continue with 2014," said Stradbroke Chamber of Commerce chairman, David Thomson.
Fires began on North Stradbroke on December 29 but were stopped by firefighters before reaching property on the island.
Over in Western Australia, 52 homes have been destroyed in a devastating bushfire in the Perth hills. One man died of a suspected heart attack while fighting the fire.
