Ebony(10) and Kilani (4), both residents of Kinglake, with Dr Tickle and Dr Achoo

One year after the bushfires, Clown Doctors were asked to attend the anniversary event held at Kinglake football oval on 7 February. After a private memorial service five Clown Doctors:Dr Tickle, Dr Achoo, Dr Noodles, Dr Nose and Dr Doctor spent a few hours engaging with the children.

Dr Doctor: It was sombre to begin but after that we started doing our stuff in a quietish way. The kids loved it. It all went well and was much appreciated by the local folk some of whom are starting to get to know us.

Dr Tickle: We were very warmly welcomed. We roamed at one end of the ground and the kids found us very quickly! The adults were generally sombre and kids ready to play.

Dr Noodles: I felt like it was appropriate and useful for us to be at such a sensitive event as we were able to entertain the children, which provided the adults with a touch of lightness at such a heavy event.

Dr Achoo: The day was difficult. The oval was hot and exposed. The mood was sombre. Grieving friends and family attended a private service to remember those who had been lost. We focused on the kids. And they responded with appropriate irreverence for the occasion. They were very willing to have whatever fun they could and we did our best to help provide it.

Dr Nose: Obviously lots of emotion and a very sad day for all concerned. Many people were happy to see us and comments were made about the Clown Doctors visit last year. We were well remembered. We engaged with children on the periphery of the main proceedings.