It is a tragic end to a torrid week for firefighting crews, after the Kingiman Road fire ripped through bushland west of Ulladulla on Wednesday, threatening Burrill Lake and surrounds.

The death of the pilot has rocked emergency service crews who have worked tirelessly to protect residents and homes.

Firefighters were confident of containing the fire by Friday afternoon, before stronger winds forecast for the weekend.

The community has rallied behind those affected and emergency service crews.

Our thoughts are with the family and colleagues of a man who died protecting others.