Wayatinah bushfire latest

THE large bushfire between Wayatinah and Ouse involves about 3400 hectares including the earlier spot fires south of Catagunya dam and another between Broad River and Repulse Dam. Fire crews are actively working on all fronts of the main fire and the spot fires.

Weather conditions today have allowed fire crews from the Tasmania Fire Service, Forestry Tasmania, Gunns and Norske Skog to focus on constructing and strengthening containment lines around the fire. Helicopters have been used to assist with water bombing, fire mapping and reconnaissance.

Asset and property protection near Ouse and Wayatinah remains a priority for fire crews, although the fire is not expected to spread further toward these communities.

Road closures in these areas, to tourists and passers-by, are Long Spur Rd (B Station Rd), Florentine Rd, Dawsons Rd, Lake Dobson Rd and the southern end of Catagunya Rd. All traffic on these roads is restricted to firefighting crews and local residents only.

Fire activity in the Wayatinah area has restricted Aurora Energy's ability to enter the area to repair fire-damaged infrastructure but they have been able to restore power to the Wayatinah village (see separate story below).

The fire is still burning on the western side of the Derwent River within state forest and continues to generate smoke in this area. Machinery is being used to establish containment lines on the western side of the main fire. Progress is being made to contain the fire in the Broad River area near Repulse Dam.

Ouse, Ellendale, Fentonbury and Westerway may be affected by smoke and ash any time in the next 24 hours.


The fire danger rating in this area is forecast to be high but there is no immediate threat to life and property from these fires. This bushfire is not controlled but is being contained by fire crews and additional support by utilising two helicopters conducting water-bombing operations in the Broad river area

This bushfire may create spot fires approximately up to 2-4km ahead.  These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front.


What to do in Ouse, Ellendale, Fentonbury and Westerway:

• Activate your bushfire plan now
• If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter.
• If you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now only if the path is clear
• If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous.
• Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas.

A multi-agency incident management team consisting of members from Forestry Tasmania, Parks and Wildlife, Norske Skog and the Tasmania Fire Service continue to manage firefighting activities.
A Tasmania Fire Service task force has been deployed from the north of the state to assist on the fire tomorrow and Thursday. Monitor ABC Local Radio (936AM Hobart) and the TFS website for further instructions and information.