Fire spate strains regional resources

It does not take much to start a bush fire, a lightning strike, a careless cigarette toss, or malicious and deliberate ignition. Still, it takes a lot of people and resources to protect life, property and the environment when one starts.

The recent fire on Razorback Road near Mount Morgan took a lot of people and effort to put out; Rural Fire Brigades from Calliungal, Gracemere, Bouldercombe, Alton Downs and Stanwell, Queensland Fire and Rescue appliances from Mount Morgan and Rockhampton were supported through the RFS Rockhampton Area Office setting up a command point on the Razorback Road itself.

Firefighting started on Monday, 12 June, and continued until Sunday, 18 June 2023.

In addition to the firefighters, officers from the Mount Morgan Police Station and volunteers from the Mount Morgan State Emergency Services unit were involved in controlling traffic, as the fire next to the road and smoke caused the Razorback Road to be closed.

Sergeant Christopher Cronin, the Officer in Charge of the Mount Morgan Police Station, said Mount Morgan Police wished to thank the local members of the community for their patience while the emergency event was attended to.

“This incident, whilst causing a negative impact in the area, proved a great training scenario for testing the emergency services resource management in the area.

“The teamwork and communication between QPS, RFS and Rockhampton Council were impressive, and the Mount Morgan Police are very glad to have access to such knowledge and leadership in the local Rural Fire Units,” Sgt Cronin said.

Over the last months, Mount Morgan and its surrounds have had multiple fires, many of which are from undetermined ignition sources. With the continuing dry weather conditions, fires can start and spread easily. They can cause significant damage to individual properties and the broader community.

Emergency services requires the community to be vigilant - if you see a fire, we you to report it to 000 so the fire and or emergency can be attended to.

“As always, I urge anyone to report suspicious behaviour online at “www.police.qld.gov. au”, via PoliceLink on 131 444 or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000,” Sgt Cronin said.

Pictured: Calliungal Rural Fire Services Volunteer Coby Elder.

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