Key Takeaways
- A 19-year-old man has been charged with a breach of duty (of care) after allegedly launching a firecracker into Perth bushland, sparking a dangerous blaze.
- The fire, which started on Temby Avenue in Kalamunda, has burned across 25 hectares of land and threatened lives and homes.
- An emergency warning was triggered, urging residents in Maida Vale, Forrestfield, and Kalamunda to leave immediately, but has since been downgraded to a Watch and Act.
- More than 2000 homes lost power overnight, but it has since been restored to almost all impacted properties.
- An evacuation centre has been set up at the High Wycombe Community and Recreation Centre, and a community meeting will be held there at 1pm today.
Introduction to the Incident
A teenager has been charged after a firecracker was launched into Perth bushland during New Year’s Eve celebrations, sparking a dangerous blaze that has threatened lives and homes. The incident occurred on Temby Avenue in Kalamunda, approximately 25km east of the CBD, around 12:20am. Police allege that the 19-year-old man threw a firecracker into dry grass, which immediately sparked a bushfire that quickly intensified. The fire has burned across 25 hectares of land, posing a significant danger to residents and properties in the surrounding areas.
Response to the Fire
A waterbombing helicopter and multiple fire crews were called to try to extinguish the inferno, but it continued to burn into the morning. An emergency warning was triggered just before 8:30am, urging residents in Maida Vale, Forrestfield, and Kalamunda to leave immediately as the blaze spread. The warning was downgraded to a Watch and Act just before 12:30pm, as fire activity decreased, but the fire still poses a danger to lives and homes in certain areas due to changing conditions. Residents in parts of Maida Vale, Kalamunda, Forrestfield, and Lesmurdie are urged to stay alert and monitor their surroundings for changing conditions.
Affected Areas and Evacuation
Residents in specific areas are urged to be vigilant, including those bound by Norwood Road, Taylor Road, Colac Place, Bird Road, Alpine Road, Wandoo Road, Holmes Road, Lewis Road, and Anderson Road. Locals bound by Hawtin Road, Norwood Road, Welshpool Road East, Lesmurdie Road, Kalamunda Road, and Canning Road should also be cautious. Doors and windows should be closed to keep smoke out, and residents should look out for spot fires on their properties. Fortunately, residents in parts of Forrestfield and Maida Vale, namely those bound by the Roe Highway, Quenington Court, Hawtin Road, and Hartfield Road, are no longer threatened by the fire.
Power Outages and Road Closures
More than 2000 homes lost power overnight as a result of the blaze, but power was restored to almost all impacted properties by 9am, according to Western Power. Several roads in the area have been closed, including Temby Road, Holmes Road at Wandoo Road, Norwood Road at Holmes Road, and Hawkin Road at Maud Road. An evacuation centre has been set up at the High Wycombe Community and Recreation Centre, and a community meeting will be held there at 1pm today to provide updates and support to affected residents.
Charges and Court Appearance
The 19-year-old man, from Kalamunda, has been charged with a breach of duty (of care) and is expected to appear before Perth Magistrates Court today. The charge relates to the alleged reckless behavior that sparked the bushfire, which has put lives and properties at risk. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior, especially during celebrations and in areas prone to bushfires.
Conclusion and Ongoing Situation
The bushfire is currently moving slowly in a westerly direction and is contained but not controlled. Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of authorities. The incident has highlighted the need for caution and responsible behavior, especially during periods of high fire danger. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for residents to stay informed and follow the instructions of authorities to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
