Authorities said a “careless” campfire lit during a fire ban could be the reason behind a major bushfire on Queensland’s Moreton Island.
Over the weekend, several campers were evacuated to the west side of Moreton Island while firefighters battled the island’s first major bushfire in six years, 9News reports.
Per the publication, the major fire burned around 640 hectares before it could be contained.
Despite the blaze, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) ranger Jay Lessons claimed there were 480 campers that are still on Moreton Island, with 20 campers asked to relocate from the north edge of the island on Saturday.
“We still have work to do, but we have the fire where we want it,” Lessons said, per the publication.
“More smoke is expected today, with a wind change coming from the north.
“Smoke will be visible on the island and heading to Brisbane.”
Lessons also warned that “bigger winds” are expected to roll in through Tuesday and Wednesday.
Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Acting Chief Superintendent Neil Parker claimed the devastating fire was sparked from an illegal campfire on the beach, despite a fire ban being put in place since Thursday until at least October 7.
“When careless things like this happen, it has a big impact, particularly on our volunteers who go out all hours of the night to keep our community safe,” Parker said.
“We just need everyone to be vigilant and safe. Use common sense.
“While everyone’s watching the football, our crews will be out there making sure the community is safe.”
Speaking to 9News, Parker said the fire engulfed the north side of the island and needed around 32 firefighters, as well as aerial waterbombing, to get it under control on Saturday and early Sunday.
He adds that firefighters will still be working over the next two days to keep the bushfire contained.
While Parker claims that the blaze stemmed from an illegal campfire, investigations into the exact reason behind the fire are still ongoing.
At the time of writing, three fires across the state are currently under Watch and Act, including the one on Moreton Island, one in Nearum and another on Gaeta Road.
Image source: 9News
The post ‘Careless’ Beach Campfire During Fire Ban Blamed For Moreton Island Blaze appeared first on PEDESTRIAN.TV .
