Operation Firewood

Beginning in the 1950s, Melbourne Legacy launched Operation Firewood, a practical and compassionate program that provided firewood to war widows throughout metropolitan Melbourne. Each winter, Legatees delivered firewood directly to widows' homes. More than simply dropping off a load of wood, volunteers also stacked it, ensuring families had everything they needed to keep warm during the colder months. 

Operation Firewood relied on the generosity of many supporters. Firewood was sourced from private properties and State forests, while Linfox regularly provided trucks to transport the timber from country Victoria into Melbourne.

At a time when open fireplaces were the primary source of home heating, this support made a real difference. For many widows and their families, a winter's supply of firewood eased financial pressure and provided comfort, security and the reassurance that they were not facing life's challenges alone. 

As gas heating became more common in Australian homes, the need for the program gradually declined. By the mid-1990s, Operation Firewood had come to an end, having served Legacy families faithfully for more than four decades. 

While the way Legacy provides support has evolved, its commitment to caring for widows remains unchanged. 

Today, Legacy continues to ensure that widows can live safely and comfortably in their own homes through practical assistance tailored to individual needs. Recently, Case Manager Zoe worked closely with 94-year-old widow Audrey to arrange the purchase and installation of a split-system heating and cooling system. Living independently, Audrey can now enjoy year-round comfort, with reliable heating in winter and cooling during Melbourne's warmer months. 

From delivering firewood to installing modern climate control, Legacy's mission has remained constant, to provide care and practical support to the families of veterans.