Rising from the Ashes – Sam's Sculpture

Sam’s sculpture stands tall and resolute, a powerful symbol of resilience. Crafted from iron, its twisting tendrils reach towards the sky, evoking the image of a phoenix rising from the ashes. This extraordinary piece is dedicated to Carol and Dave Matthews' son, symbolising his journey beyond the tragedy of the bushfire. It serves not just as an artistic tribute, but as a beacon of hope, reminding us that from devastation, beauty and strength can emerge. 

Carol’s unwavering advocacy for emotional preparedness was the catalyst for the Immersive Bushfire Experience. Her commitment to helping others understand the emotional toll of disasters is woven into every curve and line of Sam's sculpture. For Carol, emotional preparedness is not just about rebuilding; it’s about equipping hearts and minds to handle the psychological impacts of disaster before they even happen. Her story is etched into the metal, a testament to how we can prepare our spirits for what might come, building emotional resilience long before tragedy strikes.

The sculpture’s presence stands as a reminder that resilience is more than just survival: it is the act of thriving against all odds. Sam’s sculpture speaks to the core of the Immersive Bushfire Experience's mission: to prepare hearts and minds for what lies ahead, and to honour the courage it takes to move forward.