Aerial firefighter loses Serpentine home in devastating blaze

An aerial firefighter who spent a decade protecting properties and people has lost his own home in a devastating fire.

Nick and Robyn Long's family home on McKay Drive in Serpentine was destroyed last week after a fire tore through the property.

It took two hours for firefighters to bring the blaze under control.

In a GoFundMe post, their son Sean said his parents and younger brother are now facing the heartbreaking reality of losing their home, personal belongings and memories.

"A home represents far more than walls and a roof. It is where a family grows, celebrates milestones and builds a life together. For Mum and Dad, this was the home of a family they raised together - six children, countless memories and years of hard work - all changed in a matter of minutes," Sean said.

"Our father has worked as an agricultural pilot throughout Western Australia for more than 30 years. His career has been dedicated to supporting farmers, regional communities and the agricultural industry that helps put food on the tables of families across the state.

"During the agricultural off-season, Dad has spent more than 10 years working as an aerial firefighting pilot. While others are moving away from dangerous bushfires, Dad has flown directly towards them, supporting firefighting crews and helping protect people, properties and communities.

"Our mum, Robyn, is a devoted homemaker who dedicated her life to raising six children and creating a loving and supportive home for our family. The home that was lost was the centre of the life Mum and Dad built together and held decades of family memories that cannot be replaced."

The house was completely destroyed. PIC: GoFundMe

Sean said his younger brother Chase had recently begun his career as a police officer.

"Dad, Mum and Chase have each spent their lives caring for, supporting and serving others in different ways. Now, following this devastating loss, they are the ones who need support," he said.

In an update on the GoFundMe page on Wednesday, Sean thanked the community for their donations.

"When we created this page, we never imagined the incredible response it would receive. What began as a way to help Mum, Dad and Chase after losing everything in a devastating house fire quickly became a reminder of just how compassionate and generous our community truly is," the update read.

"Over the past week, hundreds of people have reached out through donations, messages, phone calls and by sharing our story. Friends, family, complete strangers, local businesses, community groups and people from right across Western Australia - and beyond - have stood beside us during one of the most difficult times our family has ever faced.

"Because of your generosity, Mum, Dad and Chase have been able to begin rebuilding their lives with one less thing to worry about. Your support has helped provide immediate essentials, temporary accommodation, and the security of knowing they weren't facing this journey alone.

"To everyone who donated, no matter the amount, thank you. Every contribution made a difference."

Donations to the GoFundMe page have been paused.

The cause of the blaze is unclear.