An Australian firefighter who recently lost everything in a New South Wales wildfire is "humbled" by fundraising efforts for him, as he continues the search for his beloved dog Kozi.
Ash Graham's wife Melanie died from cancer just over a year ago and his house burned down in the wildfires which swept through the village of Nerrigundah on New Year's Eve.
He told the Associated Press on Tuesday that the only thing keeping him motivated is his search for his "best mate" Kozi, Mr Graham's pet dog who he hasn't seen since the fire.
"He's everything I've got left, he's all that's left after my wife passed away. He's my best mate. Literally, best mate," Mr Graham said.
"I'm just hoping he was faster than Armageddon."
Today, a GoFundMe page setup to help Mr Graham rebuild his life has reached just over $18,000 , nearly halfway to its $50,000 goal.
The fundraiser's organiser, Ian Peck, says that Ash is "humbled and grateful" by the amount raised so far.
"He also wanted to say please remember the other people in his predicament and also love to the family and friends of loved ones who unfortunately died during this tragic fire season," Mr Peck wrote.
Mr Graham has yet to locate his dog, but Mr Peck told 1 NEWS a member of the public has offered to search the bush for Kozi using a drone in the coming days.
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