Veteran Australian actor Bryan Brown has been rushed to hospital following a terrifying fire that engulfed his rural property in New South Wales' Northern Rivers region. The 76-year-old Crocodile Dundee star suffered smoke inhalation and minor injuries during the dramatic ordeal that saw firefighters battle the blaze for over five hours.
Dramatic Escape from the Inferno
Emergency services were called to the property near Ballina shortly after 1:30 PM on Wednesday afternoon. Brown and his wife, actress Rachel Ward, were reportedly home when the fire broke out in an outbuilding containing their cherished collection of classic cars.
Neighbours described watching in horror as thick, black smoke billowed across the countryside. "The flames were incredible – shooting at least 20 metres into the air," one local resident told reporters. "It's miraculous that Bryan and Rachel escaped without more serious injuries."
Extensive Damage to Property and Prized Possessions
The intense fire completely destroyed the large shed and its contents, including several vintage vehicles that held significant sentimental value for the couple. Fire and Rescue NSW Superintendent acknowledged the challenging conditions crews faced, noting the remote location and limited water supply hampered efforts.
Brown, known for his roles in Breaker Morant, Gorillas in the Mist, and Cocktail, was treated at the scene by paramedics before being transported to hospital as a precaution. While shaken by the experience, the actor is expected to make a full recovery.
Community Rallies Around Beloved Star
The Australian entertainment community has flooded social media with messages of support for the beloved actor and his family. Brown and Ward, married since 1983, are well-respected figures both in the film industry and their local community, where they've maintained their property for decades.
Fire investigators are now working to determine the cause of the blaze that turned the couple's peaceful retreat into a scene of devastation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly fire can spread, particularly in rural areas during the drier months.
