Peregian Beach bushfire contained following mass evacuations

Local residents have been told to keep an eye on bushfire warnings as a blaze continues to ravage Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

Authorities are still fighting a blaze that threatened homes in embattled Peregian Beach this morning, although firefighters have now managed to contain it.

Peregian Beach residents were told to evacuate their homes earlier today as an “out of control” bushfire raged — just weeks after the last fire emergency devastated the region.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) had previously issued “leave now” alerts on social media.

Fire at Peregian Beach, poor Peregian can’t catch a break this bushfire season pic.twitter.com/nwIwt5DqPa

— CaitlínMary (@LacyMartini) October 22, 2019

However, fire crews and waterbombing helicopters are now believed to have brought the situation under control.

“Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advises there is a bushfire in Peregian Beach and conditions are getting worse,” anearlier Facebook post reads.

“Follow your bushfire survival plan now. If you do not have a plan, your safest option is to leave now if it is clear to do so.

“If you are not in the area, do not return, as conditions are too dangerous.”

LEAVE NOW: Peregian Beach bushfire as at 8:45am Wed 23 Oct. More: https://t.co/1BalPS1W82

— Qld Fire & Emergency (@QldFES) October 22, 2019

QFES said a “fast moving fire” was travelling in a northerly direction from the eastern side of David Low Way towards Lorikeet Drive, Peregian Beach.

It is expected to impact Pitta Street, Stint Street, Petrel Street, Greenshank Street and residents south of Greenshank Street on Lorikeet Drive and Oriole Ave by 9am and could have a “significant impact on the community”.

“Fire crews are working to contain the fire but firefighters may not be able to protect every property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door. Power, water, and mobile phone service may be lost,” QFES warns.

Queensland Police confirmed residents were currently being evacuated in Lorikeet Drive to Greenshank Drive, with road closures at Woodlands Boulevard to Stumers Creek Road including David Low Way.

Police told locals to “avoid or delay travel” and said an evacuation centre had been established at Noosaville Sports Oval on Wallace St.

Earlier this morning, QFES urged residents to keep up-to-date with the fire’s progression.

A large bushfire burning on a 100m front on the Sunshine Coast, north of Coolum SHS. Residents at Coolum and Peregian Beach stay informed. @abcbrisbane @abcnews @ABCemergency
Pics Caitlin Neate pic.twitter.com/iH49l3PiFB

— Shelley Lloyd (@shelleymlloyd) October 22, 2019

“You need to keep up to date and decide what actions you will take if the situation changes,” an earlier Facebook post reads.

“Multiple QFES crews are currently on scene working to contain the fire. People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.”

Another fire at Peregian Beach. A bit too close to home.... pic.twitter.com/sJpMIy4KfM

— Frances Adcock (@FrancesAdcock) October 22, 2019

Locals are advised to call triple-0 immediately if they or their property is under threat.

Residents have shared photos and footage of the blaze on social media, with one local describing the situation as an “out of control grass fire” on Twitter.

#BREAKING more than 10 crews are responding to an out of control grass fire in Peregian Beach. More to come @WINNews_SCoast @10NewsFirstQLD pic.twitter.com/PnwSwthaoO

— Brendan 'Westy' West (@westy67968) October 22, 2019

In early September, fires swept through parts of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, with Peregian Beach especially affected.

Hundreds of residents were forced to flee their homes after the fast-moving blaze appeared, with several homes eventually lost, others badly damaged and swathes of bushland destroyed.

A Queensland police taskforce was set up to investigate the cause of the fires, many of which were deliberately lit.

In September, a 14-year-old Peregian Springs boy and a 15-year-old Coolum Beach girl were charged with endangering particular property by fire.

The police alleged they were part of a group of young people who lit a fire in bushland which eventually spread to Peregian Beach.

According to QFES, residents should listen to their local radio station or visit the Rural Fire Service website for regular updates.

Those with bushfire survival plans should refer to it now and be ready to follow it, while those without one, and those who plan to leave, should identify where to go if the situation changes.

Peregian Beach residents have been warned about fresh fire threats. Picture: Supplied

Windows and doors should be closed to minimise smoke exposure and people with respiratory conditions are reminded to keep medication close by.

Other advice includes driving with caution in low visibility conditions, drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, and planning how to protect pets and livestock.

Residents are also urged to contact their neighbours to see if they need assistance, and to advise family and friends of their intended actions if the situation changes.

Locals are also encouraged to consider finding essential items like identification documents, prescription medication, food and water, and protective clothing such as a long-sleeved cotton shirt and trousers, and boots in case they need to leave suddenly.

More to come.

Originally published as Peregian Beach bushfire contained following mass evacuations