For almost two decades Australian artist Mark Whalen has called LA home. 

But last week as wildfires tore through communities, he and thousands of others saw their homes burn to the ground.

Today, Mark describes the apocalyptic scenes he witnessed and the emotional toll of losing his home. 

We also speak with Vivien Thomson who has been a rural firefighter for decades and was a fire captain during the 2003 Canberra bushfires. 

Vivien speaks about the lessons learned over the years and whether we’re better prepared now. 

Featured: 

Mark Whalen, Australian artist in LA

Vivien Thomson, rural firefighter and farmer

Key Topics:

• LA wildfires
• Mark Whalen
• Vivien Thomson
• Rural firefighting
• 2003 Canberra bushfires
• Fire preparedness
• Climate change and wildfires
• Community resilience
• Firefighting resources
• Building codes and fire safety