Southwest Queensland detectives reveal new lead in Tara arson investigation from earlier this year

After two men were arrested earlier in the year for fires that were allegedly deliberately lit, causing $4m in damage in the Western Downs, police have revealed they believe another suspect remains at large.

The investigation continues into a string of fires that detectives believe were deliberately lit, and caused millions of dollars in damage across the Western Downs earlier in the year.

From January to February multiple fires ripped through the Tara and Wieambilla areas causing more than $4m in damage.

Initial investigations by police saw two men, a father and son duo, charged in relation to nine of the fires however police have now revealed in a new operation that another suspect remains at large for separate fires that detectives from Crime and Intelligence Command believe to be deliberately lit.

Police reported that on February 12 a large bushfire at Tara was deliberately lit by a person different to those already charged who resided in the Tara area at the time.

The Bishop property on Charles Dr, Tara following the devastating fire Bushfire on February 14 2023. Picture: Contributed

The fire resulted in an emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act until February 14 with 45 residents evacuated.

Authorities say the life-threatening bushfire burnt 917ha of land, impacting 20 properties, destroying 16 dwellings, 22 vehicles and 15 sheds.

At approximately 1.45pm on February 12 a triple-0 call was received regarding the bushfire on Timothy Rd and Wallaby Track at Tara.

Detective Superintendent Craig McGrath said the fire was devastating to local families and caused significant financial hardship.

Multiple ground crews and aircraft are working to contain a large, fast-moving grass fire burning near Chinchilla Tara Road, Tara. Picture QFES

“It is extremely fortunate no one was seriously hurt, or even killed, and we urge anyone who knows anything that could assist us in finding those responsible to come forward,” he said.

“We are particularly interested to talk to the person who made the triple-0 call.”

The new information comes after residents across Tara and Wieambilla evacuated their homes once again with fire emergency crews still battling a blaze that has ripped through properties, and already destroyed five structures.