Metallica Donates Over Half A Million Dollars to NSW Brush Fires

 Metallica has pledged $750,000 AUD (approximately $516,000) to NSW Rural Fire Service and the Victoria Country Fire Authority to help the victims of Australia's devastating bushfire crisis.

The band said in a statement: "We are totally overwhelmed by the news of the wildfires sweeping through millions of acres across Australia, with major impact in New South Wales and Victoria. The resulting destruction and devastating effects on all residents, animals, the environment and the incredible land in Australia is truly heartbreaking.

"Please join us and do whatever you can to assist as we, along with our foundation All Within My Hands, are pledging A$750,000 to the NSW Rural Fire Service and to the Country Fire Authority in Victoria to aid in the relief efforts.

"NSW RFS is the world's largest volunteer firefighting organization and all funds donated during this State of Emergency are directed toward services related to and victims of these particularly destructive Australian bushfires.

"CFA (Country Fire Authority) is a volunteer and community based fire and emergency services organisation which helps to protect 3.3 million Victorians, and works together with communities to keep Victorians safe from fire and other emergencies.

Learn more about NSW Rural Fire Service and how you can help here.

NSW police have arrested 24 arson suspects.