Shock, fear and sadness grip Australia's 'bushfire refugees'

Evacuees from Mallacoota due to rampaging bushfires in Australia are seen arriving on the navy ship HMAS Choules at the port of Hastings, Victoria. - Reuters

BATEMANS BAY: Thousands of Australians forced from their homes by rampaging bushfires now find themselves stuck in makeshift camps, fearful for the future and turned refugees in their own country.

On golf courses, cricket ovals and showgrounds -- anywhere with a minimal amount of combustible tree cover -- Australians are sheltering from a climate-fuelled disaster.