A bushfire in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia has affected hectares of shrubland, fruit trees, and farm infrastructure, including machinery. The fire, which reached an "emergency" level, occurred along the Gascoyne River near the coastal town of Carnarvon, approximately 900 kilometres north of Perth. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) is investigating the cause of the fire, which is now under control.
Banana grower Valerie Shrubb experienced the loss of irrigation infrastructure and over four hectares of crops due to the fire. "Seeing the bananas was very confronting," she commented on the damage. The fire resulted in significant losses for her business, with damages running into hundreds of thousands of dollars. The blaze also affected avocado and mango trees on her property, with the full extent of the damage yet to be determined.
The fire burned through 80 hectares of land, and its cause is currently under investigation by DFES, including the possibility of it being deliberately lit. The region had experienced above-average rainfall this winter, contributing to increased fuel loads and complicating fire management efforts.
Carnarvon Shire President Eddie Smith noted the bushfire's impact on the community and local agriculture, predicting economic repercussions for at least two years. Despite the challenges, the community's response highlighted Carnarvon's strong spirit and the importance of improving fire management practices.
Source: ABC Net