Celebrity-fronted bush fire appeal raises $26m

An overnight telethon in Australia has raised more than $26 million for the Red Cross Bush Fire Appeal.

The Channel Nine broadcast brought together entertainers in Melbourne and Whittlesea including the likes of Jimmy Barnes and actor Orlando Bloom whose girlfriend is Australian model Miranda Kerr.

Bloom said it was a good effort.

"To be here, now. There's no drama, it's just people pulling up their socks and making a donation. It's remarkable. I'm very moved and touched."

Nicole Kidman and husband Keith Urban made a huge donation. Russell Crowe said it is a difficult period for the victims.

"It's a terrible time of grief and a lot of negative things going on in their lives but hopefully they can feel the swell of support from the people of Australia."

Also among the telethon stars were Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting who was in the fire zone on Wednesday and joined the telecast from Brisbane ahead of today's one dayer against the Black Caps.

- NEWSTALK ZB