by Bonnie Collings
Extreme weather events have left a trail of destruction across West Gippsland over the past week with trees toppled, buildings damaged and multiple towns left without power.
While we had a taste for the weather throughout last week, the main event occurred in the early hours of Monday morning when 124km/h winds rocked the region.
At 6:45am yesterday morning an AusNet spokesperson reported 72,000 homes across Gippsland were without power, including the entire Warragul and Moe townships.
Trampolines, barbecues, outdoor furniture and wheelie bins went on unplanned adventures as the destructive wind continued to howl.
SES crews, council emergency management teams and AusNet repair crews worked around the clock clearing roads, assessing damage and restoring power.
A couple in Bunyip made a lucky escape last Tuesday when a large tree fell on them as they were walking through Koolangara Park.
Emergency services attended the scene where a man was cut free from the fallen tree and transported to the Alfred Hospital intensive care unit with several injuries.
Buses replaced V/Line train services along the Gippsland line for most of Monday due to trees and other debris across the tracks.
Students were urged to remain home yesterday as many schools and kindergartens across the district were impacted by power outages and disrupted bus routes.
Sports and other extra-curricular activities were put on hold including activities at the Warragul Leisure Centre, local dance studios and outdoor courts.