Australian Olympic swimmer Emma McKeon‘s family was reportedly evacuated from an area affected by the country’s wildfires that are causing states of disaster.
“Sadly our home town in Lake Conjola was hit very badly, and we were extremely lucky to be safe where we were,” was posted on McKeon’s Instagram. “But our heart goes to the victims who lost so much, and to the place many call home.”
McKeon, 25, earned an Australia-leading four medals at the Rio Olympics, including gold as part of the 4x100m freestyle. Her father, Ron, and brother, David, also swam for Australia at the Olympics.
The McKeon family was evacuated Friday, according to Swimming World.
At least 17 people have died since the fires broke out, and almost twice the land of New Jersey has been scorched, according to NBC News.
“It is so hard to truly understand the level of devastation and suffering happening right now across the country from these fires,” was posted on McKeon’s Instagram. “I am so grateful to the relentless work and sacrifice from the firies, most of who are volunteers, saving thousands of people’s homes and lives, and still continuing.
“From being down at Lake Conjola over the last week, you can feel the way the community has come together to support eachother. Everyone across Australia can come together as a country and support from afar aswell by donating to those who have sadly lost their homes and everything in them, and to the fire fighters and volunteers who are risking their lives daily.”
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