High praise for fireys after fierce Dunsborough blaze

Locals have praised the efforts of firefighters who came together to battle fierce flames and high winds as the townsite of Dunsborough came under threat from fire.

The fire broke out early on Sunday afternoon, with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services issuing an emergency alert as the flames quickly took hold in dense bush.

Homes were evacuated and businesses were quickly forced to close, as firefighters from around the region assembled alongside water bombers and spotter planes, battling high winds and thick vegetation.

An evacuation centre was established at Naturaliste Community Centre, while residents and visitors to the area expressed shock at the speed of the fast moving fire, offering places for evacuees to seek shelter and safe places for pets and livestock.

Many businesses including Dunsborough Dominos, Coles, the Dunsborough Tavern and Bayside Burger Van were quick to offer meals to those helping to fight the fire.

By early evening, the fire had been contained, and residents were able to return to their homes to witness how close some came to disaster. Incredibly, no homes were lost in the fierce blaze.

Busselton Mayor and volunteer firefighter Phill Cronin offered his thanks to those who stepped in to help.

“That includes the residents, who by enacting their fire plan were able to get out of the area and let the fire crews do their job unimpeded,” he said.

“There we 50 appliances, 125 firefighters, two helicopters, and two planes. So many people and organisations came together so quickly with one aim, to save lives and property.”

Local Matt Hickey echoed his sentiments, praising the efforts of the pilots who worked with firefighters on the ground to conduct a coordinated defence of the area.

“These pilots were incredible,” Mr Hickey wrote. “When you think about it, they do what they do, and just before sunset they park up their helicopters or planes and just go home like it’s a normal day at work! They are unreal.”

A Wallcliffe Volunteer Fire Brigade spokesperson said the fire was a stark reminder to be prepared, no matter where you live and work.

“[The] fast-moving bushfire burned through some heavy fuel loads, crowning in the tree canopy and sending embers ahead of the fire front-right into the suburbs.

“This was a compelling reminder that we live in one of WA’s most bushfire-prone regions.

“If you live in or near bushland, you MUST have a bushfire plan. Practice it with your family. Know what you’ll do before a fire threatens.”

Busselton and Dunsborough Police are now seeking the public’s assistance to investigate the cause of the fire.

Strike Force Vulcan officers attended to conducted a fire scene examination. The cause of the fire is undetermined.

“Police are urging anyone who saw any suspicious activity, persons, or vehicles in the vicinity of Robertson Drive, Clamp Circuit and Cape Naturaliste Drive, or who has any information relating to this fire, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestopperswa.com.au.

“Anyone with CCTV, mobile phone, or dash-cam vision relating to this fire, particularly is the areas listed above, is asked to upload the vision direct to investigators via wapf.au.evidence.com/…/public/dunsboroughbushfire

“Rewards of up to $25,000 are available for information that leads to the identification and conviction of an arsonist.”

To create and update your plan, visit mybushfireplan.wa.gov.au