ABOUT 120 firefighters, 50 fire trucks and nine aircraft were involved in fighting a bushfire in Jandabup over the Australia Day long weekend.
The fire, believed to have been sparked by a stolen vehicle set alight in the area, took more than two days to completely extinguish and burnt through about 40ha of bushland and private property.
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READ NOWA Department of Fire and Emergency Services spokesman said it was reported about 12.50pm on January 26 during hot, windy conditions.
He said the response by career, volunteer, Parks and Wildlife Service firefighters as well as aerial support ensured no homes were lost despite the fire getting close to houses.
“An emergency warning was issued at one stage – it flared up pretty quick,” he said.
“It was contained and controlled at 3.31pm, however there were still peat fires burning.”
About 30 staff from Parks and Wildlife were involved in fighting the fire, using two loaders and a dozer to create containment lines.
The ‘all clear’ was issued after 6pm on Monday, January 28 and a Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions spokeswoman said staff would continue patrolling the area for several days.
Fire crews were supported by SES and Salvation Army volunteers as well as WA Police.
A stolen motor vehicle was found burnt out in the area and Arson Squad detectives appealed for information from the public on Monday to help with their investigation.
The vehicle, a white 2013 Mitsubishi Pajero, registration 1EDZ275, was stolen in Murdoch about 3.30pm on January 23 and seen in Dianella about 10am on January 25 near a burglary on Lennard Street.
Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au.