Russell Crowe loses property to bushfires

BUSHFIRES raging across Australia’s east coast have destroyed two buildings on a rural property owned by Russell Crowe, the Oscar-winning actor.

Crowe, 55, posted a video and pictures on Twitter of a helicopter water-bombing smoke-filled trees near a fence and driveway. He commented: “Top shot son!”

Crowe had earlier confirmed that he was not in Australia and that his family was safe with friends.

Bushfires have arrived earlier this year, spurred by dry conditions. They have already claimed three lives. In a post showing charred ground and objects at his property in north-east New South Wales, Crowe said: “Lost a couple of buildings, but overall very lucky so far. Chapel roof scorched.”

He thanked those on the ground and said no livestock or horses had died.

“Let the chickens out and they are back, warm worms for breakfast!”

While cooler weather overnight brought some relief to New South Wales, attention shifted to its northern neighbour, Queensland, where firemen struggled to contain more than 150 fires.

Authorities issued a “leave immediately” evacuation warning, the highest level, for several areas including Noosa, a beachside holiday destination 90 miles north of Brisbane.

“Firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing,” Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said.

“The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path.”

Australian police suspect that 12 fires were started by arsonists after examining unexplained ignition points.

“It’s awful, it angers every firefighter and angers everybody,” Shane Fitzsimmons, commissioner of the New South Wales rural fire service, said.