What you can do

If you are feeling as horrified and helpless as I am in the face of such horrible events, then may I suggest that you donate some money to the Red Cross?

Many people already are, which is great, but I am sure that more is needed. My understanding is that cash rather than things are needed at the moment, because there simply aren't enough people available to sort through the mountains of donated stuff already received for the time being.

Another option would be to donate some art or craft to this fundraising auction - or to encourage another artist that you know to do so.

Finally, Coles are donating all of their profits on Friday 13 February to the bushfire relief. While this is clearly a PR exercise of sorts, it may also raise a considerable amount of money and so you could consider doing your shopping at Coles on Friday too (if you live in Australia).

UPDATE: More options for helping out include donating to help the wildlife affected by the fires; offering a bed to people made homeless by the fires; and bidding on some handmade goodness (with proceeds going to the Red Cross) or making something of your own to auction off for the cause.