House fire investigation

INVESTIGATIONS into the cause of last night's spectacular house fire have been handed over to Tasmania Police. Initial inquiries last night led the fire brigade to label the incident as suspicious.

The fire at 4 Andrews St, New Norfolk, was first reported at about 9.50 on Saturday night. Despite the efforts of neighbours who tackled the fire with garden hoses, the 1950s weatherboard house was completely engulfed in flames when the New Norfolk Fire Brigade arrived shortly afterwards.

Despite being vacant, electricity was still connected to the house and a falling power line caused concerns when it started to spark. Contrary to television news reports, local firefighters had the incident under control within a short time, although they remained on site until early this afternoon.