It was all hands on deck for communities in Western Sydney last week as they faced a desperate fight against raging bushfires. While the wider community pledged support for bushfire victims, local Cafe2U operators were taking up the cause to help their neighbours.

David and Marina Rowe from Cafe2U Emu Plains were right in the centre of the fires and took the opportunity to offer help where they could.

“We were in the heart of everything that was going on, so it was a dire situation that we witnessed first hand. We offered free coffees to all of the people helping out with the fire fighting initiative, as well as to those who have been directly affected.”

The couple also donated $1 from each coffee to the victims of bushfires and have set up a collection tin for donations.

“We have seen other local businesses offering similar support wherever they can. It is just amazing to see the community pull together in times of adversity. We just want to do our bit,” Marina added.

Local Cafe2U Penrith operator Chris Psathas echoed these sentiments. “The fire fighters are doing such a wonderful job, I just wanted to show my support for the community and do my bit for the bushfire appeal.”

Chris stationed himself at the Penrith Base Camp for four days last week, working around the clock to make coffees for all the fire fighting personnel, stopping only briefly to catch up on a couple of hours sleep in the back of his Cafe2U van.

Below: The RFS Chopper Squad enjoying a coffee at Penrith

And in Windsor Steve Payk also set up at the temporary base camp at UWS Campus in Hawkesbury for the week, serving coffees to all the firefighters and support staff as they came and went from their shifts.

“I am glad I was able to give something back to the firefighters and support teams who have been working tirelessly through this terrible period. Being able to offer my services to make these guys and gals days’ a bit more pleasant, is humbling for me.” Steve added.  

Images: Cafe2U