Little Billabong couple Darrell and Sjaan Tonkin lost their home and almost all of their possessions in the Carabost fire last month.

But an immaterial attitude has the couple excited about the opportunity to build a new home and restore their previous life.

The pair was forced to put their fire plan into action when the fire first flared up following a lightning strike on January 18.

“From the point when the lightning first struck to when we were driving out of our driveway was only half an hour,” Mr Tonkin said.

“We only just had enough time to pack a mini caravan that we have, which is our fire plan.

“We just packed a suitcase and clothes... my wife said, criteria wise, anything that takes more than two minutes to pack wasn’t going.”

Despite being in a situation that would leave most people distraught, Mr Tonkin said an attitude of “life’s too short” has seen the couple move on from their loss.

“The difference between us and your usual fire story is that we built there knowing the consequences of a bush fire; the house would burn down,” he said.

“So when we drove down the driveway there was just acceptance of that happening.

“There was no remorse and no feeling bad over the material stuff.

“We’re not blasé about it but we’re accepting and positive because that’s how we live our life anyway.

“When we went back the home was gone, which we expected, but it was fantastic because the land itself has all been cleared.

“In a few months time when we’ve had a bit of rain, that property will be back better than it’s ever been.

“We can see the potential of the land and we’re excited about what’s going to happen.”

While accepting what has happened, Mr Tonkin remains grateful to the efforts of the Holbrook community in helping them to live comfortably while preparing to rebuild their home.

A local couple has donated a small home to the Tonkin’s as they get back on their feet and several businesses have rallied to the cause.

“It doesn’t surprise me... I know what country people are like.”