Bushfire threatens homes, locals told to flee

A BUSHFIRE is threatening homes near the WA Kimberly coast town of Broome and residents have been told to head for the beach.

The blaze has so far blackened some 15,000 hectares and houses in Coconut Wells, about 18km from Broome, are now at risk, says the Fire and Emergency Services Authority (FESA) says.

Residents who abandoned their homes were advised to go to the beach as the blaze has also begun to close in on Morrel Park and Lullfitz.

“It may be hours before it is safe to return home so take water, food and sun protection,” FESA said in a statement.

“People who have decided to stay and defend their home should prepare for the fire.”

Residents have been told to close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative airconditioners.

The FESA says 25 volunteer fire and rescue service and bushfire service firefighters from two brigades are involved in the operation.

They saved six homes yesterday and extra crews are being flown in.

Road closures are in place and motorists have been urged to drive slowly.

Source  :  www.news.com.au

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Kimberley boat fire ‘not suspicious’

A fire that destroyed a 24m cruiser in the North-West on Wednesday night has been declared not suspicious by FESA.  

Kimberley Quest was gutted by fire while on a slipway in Broome, with damage estimated at $3 million.

FESA’s fire investigation officer Kim Maldon and police arson today ruled out arson but said the cause of the fire would remain undetermined.

A small amount of fuel and oil spilt onto the beach as a result of the blaze. It is understood volunteer firefighters and the Broome Port Authority kept the environmental impact to a minimum.

Operated by family business Pearl Sea Coastal Cruises, the vessel is one of two cruisers owned by the company, the other being the luxurious tourist vessel Kimberley Quest II cruising through the Kimberley.

Kimberley Quest was the company’s original tourist cruiser from 2000 until 2005 but is now used solely as a scientific research vessel.

Source www.thewest.com.au

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