A large and devastating bushfire is sweeping through one of Western Australia’s most popular tourist areas.
An emergency warning has been issued for people in parts of Eagle Bay, Naturaliste and Dunsborough in the city of Busselton.
Holidaymakers have been cut off by road as the out-of-control bushfire threatens lives and properties in the area, located about 250 kilometres south of Perth in WA’s South West.
Incident controller Blake Moore said authorities were unable to evacuate people from the Eagle Bay and Bunker Bay areas, where thousands of holidaymakers are staying over summer, because of the limited road access.
“It’s too late to leave, leaving now would be deadly,” Emergency WA said. “You need to shelter in your home in a room away from the fire front and make sure you can easily escape … you must shelter before the fire arrives, as the extreme heat will kill you well before the flames reach you.”
There are, of course, a number of caravan parks and camping areas in the region, but there is also concern about anyone who might be camping illegally in the bush.
Mr Moore said authorities had evacuated Meelup National Park overnight to clear any illegal campers, but they did not know how many people were still in the Eagle Bay area.
Holidaymakers posted this terrifying shot from Dunsborough after being evacuated in the early hours of the morning. PIC: Facebook / 7News
Just a few days ago, authorities in nearby Margaret River said it was cracking down hard on illegal camping, citing bushfire concerns as one of the motivations.
The fire, which was first reported on Monday night, is burning out of control and considered unpredictable.
It has already destroyed about 200 hectares with 150 firefighters working to protect assets and build containment lines. Water bombing aircraft have also been sent to the scene.
I have been in ‘frightening’ bushfire situations while fighting same as a volunteer firefighter. The best solution is to not panic, depart quickly at the first sign of fire/smoke, drive away from the presumed direction of the fire, let your family know you are safe when possible, keep your temper under control and listen to the advice of coppers and firies.