The Legerwood couple were left in shock when they realised trucks used for their family-run business were gone as well as a tractor belonging to Mrs Harper’s father, who passed away earlier this year.

The tractor had been passed down to the couple’s 14-year-old son Jake, who was “best mates” with his pop and devastated by the loss.

Since the tragic incident, the Legerwood community rallied behind the family and Jake was surprised with a new tractor on Saturday.

“About 10 local guys chucked in money and found him a tractor that was the same as his pop’s,” Mr Harper said.

“Him and his pop were best mates. It’s so special, the love and affection from the community is just overwhelming.

“We’ve had people calling in everyday, bringing food and beers and sending us their best wishes. You don’t get that in the big city, it’s not just a community it’s more like family.”

Jake said he was almost finished restoring his pop’s tractor when it was destroyed in the fire.

“I nearly had it done up and then it got burnt,” he said.

“It was a bit of a shock when they all turned up [on Saturday] with the new tractor … it was really special.”

Dean Reynolds and David Berwick were part of the group of people who organised to purchase the tractor for Jake.

“We knew it wasn’t the same [tractor], but it’s something that he could work on,” Mr Reynolds said.

Mr Berwick said they placed an advertisement online and managed to locate a similar tractor.

“The guy was willing to do a deal with us so … off we set to Richmond to pick her up,” he said.

As the family prepares to start the cleanup process, a fundraising event has been organised by residents to help get them back on their feet.

Family friend and event co-organiser Karmen Davis said Troy and Sally were always involved in the community and it was a chance for them to give back to the family.

“They would do anything for anyone in need, so we wanted to have an event that would let them have fun again and also raise some cash for everyday expenses,” Mrs Davis said.

She said the fire had been a shock for the entire community.

“Troy and Sally worked so hard for their business and it was just shattered overnight. People realised it could happen to anyone, which was scary.

“It was hard because people did not really know what to do or say or how to help them, but I think it has definitely brought us stronger together and we realised even though it is a small community we can get together and do something to help each other.”

The event will be held on Saturday at the Ringarooma Hall and will include a BBQ and auction to raise funds for the family.

For more information contact Karmen on 0458633157.

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