Cottage razed as hot ashes spark fire

Ballandean blaze cause identified

DISCARDED ashes from a campfire at a Ballandean property sparked a fast-moving bushfire which destroyed a cottage and vintage truck on Sunday.

The fire tore through about 320 hectares and triggered the voluntary relocation of two households in the area as 14 crews battled to contain the 3km fire-front.

Charges against the campers are unlikely due to the suffered property loss, but Rural Fire Service Darling Downs area Acting Inspector John Welke said it was a reminder about fire safety during dry winter months.

Inspector Welke said the Southern Downs Local Disaster Management Group was briefed on the fire situation on Sunday as the situation steadied yesterday.

“We did have some flareups earlier in the day but crews have been able to contain that fire and are actively pushing any burning logs back into the burnt area,” he said.

“We’re looking at much milder conditions (Monday) and the rest of the week.

“We’re still experiencing very traditional August westerly winds of up to around 20km/h.

“We’re got some very cold overnight temperatures with nice sunny days but the prevailing factor is that really dry western wind fuelling the risk.”

Restrictions on fire permits remained in place and applications were approved by local fire wardens on a case-by-case basis, Inspector Welke said.

He said some fire wardens had refused permits where contingency and containment plans were not adequate.

The Ballandean blaze capped off a busy weekend in the region with several large bushfires including one at Umbiram on Friday which threatened property and livestock.

Landowners are reminded of their responsibilities with campfires and vegetation fires, and are urged to be vigilant to risks and aware of firefighters in smoke haze conditions.