Firefighters praised after controlling a bushfire that threatened communities in Crossman and closed highway

Volunteer and career firefighters have been praised for their efforts in protecting lives and homes across a series of uncontrolled bushfires that threatened communities near Crossman last month. The fires in the Wheatbelt and Peel regions were sparked by dry lightning just after noon on January 22 near the intersection of Crossman Road and Albany Highway. There were multiple ignition points with hot conditions and heavy fuel loads causing the fire to escalate rapidly. At the height of the emergency on January 23 and 24, about 150 firefighters were deployed to the incident, supported by fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, including four Black Hawk helicopters. Department of Fire and Emergency Services Assistant Commissioner Peter Sutton said the response highlighted the strength of co-operation across firefighting crews. “Volunteer and career firefighters did an outstanding job protecting lives and homes during a string of fast-moving bushfires near Boddington over the weekend,” he said. The firefighting effort brought together personnel from DFES, volunteer bushfire brigades, Parks and Wildlife officers and emergency response teams from Newmont Mine and South32 as well as 30 personnel from the Tasmania Fire Service who arrived on January 25 to help relieve local crews. Crews battled erratic fire behaviour and difficult weather conditions, successfully protecting 35 properties that came under threat. In total more than 6200ha were burnt but no homes were lost. Mr Sutton said the outcome was a credit to firefighting teams. “The fact that no homes were lost is a testament to the efforts of teams on the ground,” he said. The fire also impacted part of the Albany Highway which was closed for several days before reopening on January 24. The blaze was successfully contained by 10.40am on January 25, with crews remaining on scene last week to mop up and bring the fire fully under control. Mr Sutton acknowledged the resilience of the local community, noting residents had already endured a difficult summer following the bushfire that occurred over the festive period. “I would like to thank all responders and community members in the area who have had a very challenging month after also facing a significant bushfire at Boddington over Christmas and new year,” he said.