They woke that morning in late November to prepare a bottle for their son, only to find their home well alight.
They have been working hard to get their lives back to a level of normalcy, which is being made easier with the support of Berrigan and its surrounding communities.
Maddy and Dylan Sibraa, and their two children Florence and Patrick Sibraa, have had locals wrap their arms around them in the aftermath.
And the support will continue with a public community fundraiser in their honour this weekend.
The Sibraas say while their mementos, treasured possessions and valuables cannot be recovered, or couldn’t, efforts by friends and family have helped soften the blow of the tragedy.
In the days following the fire, a Go Fund Me page was started for the family.
It raised more than $30,000 to help the family.
This weekend’s community fundraiser aims to add to that amount.
It will be held Sunday at the Berrigan Sports Ground.
Berrigan local Ray McCartney and Dylan’s Aunty Marj Lee have organised the event, booking music acts for entertainment, an auction, raffles and an afternoon tea.
“Dylan and I appreciate Ray and Marj's efforts to organise this event, and are already so grateful for the number of donations and support the community has shown us through the Go Fund Me page and elsewhere” Maddy said.
“In times like these, it's easy to forget just how powerful a sense of community can be, but (the community’s) actions have reminded us of the incredible strength that comes from standing together.
“We are not just neighbours; we are friends, and we are truly blessed to be a part of such a remarkable place.
“As we move forward, we are committed to paying it forward and teaching our children the invaluable lesson you've shown us.
“This is exactly why we feel so lucky to live here, and we will carry these lessons with us every day.”
The young family is still coming to terms with the “horrible” situation, but will continue to move forward.
They say the emotional and mental toll is hardest to overcome.
“Our two year-old daughter is struggling to connect to the situation, and still often asks why we can't go home,” Maddy said.
“She mentions the fire at least once a day and often talks about her dresses being burnt and her home.”
The Sibraas are still staying with family, saying it has been difficult to find suitable housing or move during the festive season.
“We haven't found accommodation yet, as it's a very hard and busy time of the year,” Maddy shared.
“Everyone is busy, away, or businesses are closed down for the holidays.
“Now that the new year is here, we are hoping that things get a wriggle on, and we are able to find somewhere soon.
“We are going well as a family unit, living with my parents.
“Although we have our ups and downs, the kindness of the people around us has done wonders for our resilience.
“The support from family and friends has made us feel overwhelmed with appreciation, we struggle with the idea of people giving us so many things.
“We often find ourselves not sure of what to say as we were in shock of the events, and then everyone's efforts to keep us afloat.”
Sunday’s family fundraiser for the Sibraa family starts from noon at the Berrigan Sports Ground.
Admission is $20 per adult, while children can attend for free.
Mr Macartney will perform on the day, as will Annie Cameron, Hilary Ogden, Jackie Lee & Doug, and the Happenstance Duo.
There will also be an auction and raffle, with afternoon tea available.
17°C