LONGTIME LOCAL Wayne Parsons has lost everything after a devastating fire destroyed his family home at 200 Hazelbrook Road, Smiths Creek Uki on Tuesday, July 29.

The Parsons’ family home was the longtime estate of local icon Robert John Parsons (aka JP), who passed away in November 2020.

The loss of the estate has delt a savage blow to Wayne and the Parsons family, who believe it may have been an electrical surge that caused the fire at around 2.30pm.

The property was "completely destroyed" in the blaze, which was attended by mulitple local firefighters alongside police and ambulance.

Wayne was taken to hospital after he attempted to enter the building to savage any of the families' personal belongings, but was sadly too late.

He was later taken to hospital as a precaution after he suffered smoke inhalation as well as extreme stress and anxiety.

“It was devastating to lose such a highly valuable estate and asset as our family home,” Wayne said.

The property was not insured at the time of the fire and left Wayne, and his dog Fred who also survived the blaze, homeless.

“We lost everything in the fire, including all our family records, photos, belongings and tools,” Wayne said.

“I’m grateful to my brother, Robert (Jnr), who has allowed me to stay at his property in my camper which was only partially damaged by the fire.”

Wayne is a retired builder, who was working on the family home with a view to complete its final renovation stage.

“I was so close to getting the home in order for everyone, but this has come as a devastating blow, and I’m really not sure what to do,” he said.

“I’ve tried a range of services and support networks, who are helping with some food and other essentials, but there’s no chance of securing any funds to repair the home.

"I need some help to get back on my feet."

Tweed Valley Weekly helped Wayne and the Parsons family setup a GoFundMe page to appeal to friends and residents to please help this longtime local family to get back on their feet.