The community of Russell Island are in shock after a fire claimed the lives of a father and his five young boys over the weekend.

Police on Sunday afternoon confirmed six bodies had been found.

Press PLAY to hear more about the tragic blaze

4BC Journalist Matt Hepworth told Karl and Mick on 6PR Breakfast the mother was reportedly “absolutely overcome with grief.”

“We’ve heard testimonies from the local MP on the island; it’s obviously a very confronting scene for the community and emergency services,” Mr Hepworth said.