As the toll of the Carrai East fire, which continues to burn west of Kempsey, is counted, another historic building has been added to the destruction.
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The Kookaburra Scout Hall was completed destroyed at the old town. Kempsey Scouts leader Eric Walsh has been the caretaker of the hall since 1993 and made the discovery last Friday.
"I made the trip out to check out the property with a friend and I was just devastated at what we found," Walsh told the Argus.
"I have been going up there since I was 14 and my kids have gown up there since they were babies.
"It was emotional to see it completely destroyed."
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The hall was revamped in 1984 and is regularly used by the Kempsey Scouts, travellers, hikers, bird watchers and much more.
Mr Walsh said the Kempsey Scouts would use the facility as a base every couple of weeks throughout summer and at least once a month throughout the rest of the year.
Mr Walsh is hopeful of rebuilding the hall but there are a few roadblocks in his way.
"The land has been on lease through the forestry for the last 35 years but it recently changed to the National Parks," he said.
"We are in early discussions on approval to rebuild but even after that we will face financial difficulties, the scouts won't be able to afford to build it."
Despite the financial troubles, Mr Walsh is confident the Kookaburra Scout Hall will be brought back to life as many people have offered support.
"There has been a great response from people up and down the coast who have said that once we get approval they will do what they can to help," Mr Walsh said.
"It's quite humbling and beautiful to receive such generous messages from so many people who truly care and are willing to help out."
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