Kiery-Anne moved to the Latrobe Valley with her husband, Harry, in 2000 and during the time of the Hazelwood Mine Fire lived on the south side of Morwell close to the open cut. After living in the toxic smoke for the best part of 45 days, Harry, her partner of 30 years, passed away with a sudden brain aneurism.

Following her husband’s death in 2014, Kiery-Anne has been involved in thoroughly researching the effects of the smoke upon the community. She now has an extensive knowledge of PM2.5 particulate matter and continuously fights for all those who lost loved ones in the fire.

This year, Kiery Anne is preparing for a class action lawsuit against GDF Suez (Engie) with hopes that other community members will come forward and share their grievances.