Devastating blazes accompany warnings of warmer conditions

20 February 2023

Bushfires across Queensland, SA and NSW have destroyed tens of structures, as the Bureau of Meteorology expects hot and dry weather conditions to continue.

Firefighters in Queensland battled more than 18 out-of-control bushfires in the Western Downs region last week as residents of nearby towns were forced to leave.

An out-of-control fire near the regional town of Montrose displaced more than 40 residents, with more than 20 structures, including homes and sheds, destroyed by the 890-hectare fire.

Western Downs communities have received access to disaster assistance provided by the Federal Government and State Government’s jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

“A range of assistance is now available to support community recovery such as immediate personal hardship payments to cover the costs of essential items for individuals and families, as well as funding for operational response activities.” Federal Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt said.

“Through the DRFA we are able to offer those most affected some peace of mind by providing assistance to help meet their immediate needs.”

In SA, over 85 firefighters were called to battle a severe bushfire near Port Lincoln that saw nearby communities evacuated. The fire was contained by firefighters on Thursday to about 113 hectares but continued to blaze for days afterwards.

Bushfire concerns will remain as the Bureau projects the upcoming months to be drier and warmer for many parts of Australia, which it says reflects a declining La Nina season.