ROLLING COVERAGE: Possible fire at Mount Larcom
See a full update of the Central Queensland fire emergency
Rockhampton
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WHAT WE KNOW
- The Caves fire has been downgraded to Advice level. READ MORE HERE.
- Residents at Kabra are now an advice level. READ MORE HERE.
- It is safe to return to Mount Larcom and Ambrose, all roads re-open
- Several schools remain closed. FULL LIST HERE.
12.30PM: There are unconfirmed reports of a bushfire sparking up near Mount Larcom.
It is believed fire crews are on their way to the fire.
SUNDAY 7.50AM: BOTH fires burning at Kabra/Stanwell and The Caves have remained at Advice level overnight.
A spokesperson from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services has confirmed that as of 6.30PM Saturday the two fires were still burning within containment line.
Residents are still being asked to stay informed and monitor the warning for those areas.
The bushfire at Kabra/Stanwell area is burning within containment lines between Malchi Nine Mile Road, Pipeline Road, Meteor Park Road, Kabra.
Fire crews ceased backburning operations as of 7.30PM last night and they will be monitoring the area throughout the day.
People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.
Residents should close windows and doors and keep respiratory medications close by.
Properties are not under direct threat at this time.
The fire at The Caves is burning within containment lines between Spring Creek Close and Rossmoya Road.
People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality. Crews ceased backburning operations as of 6.30PM last night and will be monitoring the fire throughout the day. Homes are not under direct threat at this time. FRIDAY 9AM: A SPOKESPERSON for the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services has confirmed both The Caves bushfire and the Kabra/Stanwell area have been brought under control and are burning within containment lines.
Around 8am this morning both fires were downgraded to Advice level, with residents from both areas being asked to stay informed.
The bushfire in the Kabra/Stanwell area is burning within containment lines between Malchi Nine Mile Rd, Pipeline Rd, and Meteor Park Rd.
The fire at The Caves is burning within containment lines between Spring Creek Close and Rossmoya Rd.
5.45PM: THE bushfire warning level for a fire burning at The Caves has been downgraded to Advice.
The bushfire is currently burning within containment lines between Spring Creek Close and Rossmoya Road.
Residents are being asked to stay informed of all updates and be prepared if the situation changes.
3.05PM: AN evacuation centre has been set up at The Caves Country Pub, 1 Buch Square.
2.55PM: RESIDENTS of The Caves are being warned to be prepared to leave at any time following a warning upgrade.
Shortly before 2.30pm Queensland Fire and Emergency Services issued a WATCH AND ACT bushfire warning.
"A large fire is travelling from The Mount Etna Caves National Park in south-westerly direction towards Spring Creek Close and Barmoya Road, The Caves. The fire is likely to impact Spring Creek Close and Barmoya Road," the warning read.
"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."
12.20PM: A dramatic police chase has seen a man arrested, suspected of lighting a fire near the Burnett Hwy.
10.30PM: ROCKHAMPTON Regional Council has advised no properties were under threat from the now-contained Kabra/Stanwell fire.
"The fire at Stanwell/Kabra was moving in a slow south-westerly direction yesterday but overnight the wind dropped which has pulled up this fire," Cr Tony Williams said.
"While conditions are much better than they have been, I would once again urge residents to remain alert to QFES warnings as these situations can change very quickly.
"Due to heavy smoke in the Alton Downs area last night, 17 residents moved to the evacuation centre, which has once again closed today.
"Fire bans remain in place and residents in Gracemere are being asked to reduce their use of sprinklers and other outside water where possible.
"The water supply capacity to Gracemere has been increased and is currently meeting demand, but we need to ensure we have some contingency in the event of significant increases in demand or power outages."
The Community Recovery Hub is now open at the Gracemere Community Hall on Barry Street for people impacted by the bushfires.
Visit the Queensland Community Recovery Centre website for details www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies or phone the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349. The LDMG is expected to receive another weather briefing at 3.00pm today.
7.45AM: FIRES at The Caves, Kabra and Mount Larcom have all been contained overnight.
Residents in those areas are being advised to keep across all updates and the warning level has been downgraded to advice.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services have not issued any further releases this morning as the situation has not changed overnight.
THE CAVES: as at 7pm Thursday 29 November, a bushfire is in the vicinity of Ladynskis Road, Melanie Road and Dodds Lane, The Caves. The fire is currently contained and crews will remain on scene to monitor the blaze.
KABRA: As at 5.30pm Thursday 29 November, a bushfire is slowly travelling in a north-easterly direction between Malchi Nine Mile Road and Pipeline Road, Kabra. People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality
MOUNT LARCOM: As at 6.15pm Thursday, 29 November a bushfire is burning near The Narrows Road, Mount Larcom. The fire is contained and firefighters will remain on scene throughout the evening to monitor.All roads to Mount Larcom and Ambrose have now re-opened and police have advised residents that it is safe to return.
THURSDAY
7PM: THE fire warning level has changed for a bushfire at The Caves.
According to the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) website, the warning level has changed to Advice.
The bushfire is currently in the Ladynskis Rd, Melanie Rd and Dodds Lane area and has been contained.
Fire crews will remain on the scene to monitor the fire.
6PM: The fire at Kabra has downgraded to an advice level.
Residents are being advised to keep up to date and what what actions you will take if the situation changes.
The fire at The Caves is also now a watch and act level and residents are being advised to be ready to follow your bushfire plan.
5.30PM: LOCAL disaster management groups have provided the latest updates from their meetings.
In Livingstone, The Caves fire remains a serious concern, although extreme conditions have been progressively easing with winds and temperatures decreasing in the late afternoon.
"The Caves fire is currently burning on three active fire fronts which has been very challenging," Livingstone Shire mayor Bill Ludwig said.
"An expected change to more favorable conditions this evening and tomorrow should assist firefighters with back burning and reinforcement of established containment lines.
"Council will continue to monitor the situation with regular updates through Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and other emergency services on the ground.
"Residents of The Caves are currently at bushfire warning level: WATCH AND ACT and Council is urging the community to continue in heeding to State Warnings.
"There are currently 44 customers without power in the Livingstone Region, located at The Caves, Wattlebank, Glendale, Glenlee, Bungundarra and Woodbury.
Emergency repairs are currently in progress.
"Spot fires in Zilzie are continuing to be closely monitored with vehicle patrols and police door knocks. This risk has not escalated at this time but will continue to be watched for any changes."
In Rockhampton, residents are being urged to stay vigilant despite more favourable conditions.
Residents in Stanwell and Kabra can return home, but it remains smoky and the Rockhampton Showgrounds remain open as an evacuation centre.
"However, as we've seen, these fires can be unpredictable and the situation can change at very short notice," Councillor Tony Williams said.
3.45PM: FITZROY River Water and Councillor Tony Williams are urging Gracemere residents to reduce their use of sprinklers and outside water to ensure water supply remains at a sufficient level.
"The water supply capacity to Gracemere has been increased and is currently meeting demand, but we need to ensure we have some contingency in the event of significant increases in demand or power outages," Cr Williams said.
"If Gracemere residents limit their outdoor water usage (unless it is directly related to dealing with the current bushfire emergency) this will ensure sufficient water supply remains available to those who really need it."
3PM: FIRES in Kabra and The Caves have been downgraded.
Conditions still could get worse however the latest warning from QFES is to prepare to leave.
At 2.35pm, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north-easterly direction from Barmoya Rd towards Whitings Rd, Ladynskis Rd, Olsens Caves Rd and The Caves Tourist Park.
2.50PM: KABRA is being told to prepare to leave. A large, slow-moving fire is travelling in a north/north-easterly direction towards Malchi Nine Rd, Kabra.
2.30: AERIAL footage shows how The Caves fire is spreading.
This footage was shot by The Morning Bulletin about 12.40pm.
A LEAVE NOW alert as been issued for Caves residents. READ MORE HERE.
2.15PM: VISIBILITY is low on Capricorn Highway around Kabra as the fire is spreading.
Many houses are without power and Ergon Energy are assuring their customers they have crews on the ground trying to fix the issues.
26 homes are affected in The Caves area around The Caves, Charlton Rd, Rossmoya Rd, Pershouse Rd and Wattlebank.
89 homes around Kabra are also affected in the areas of Cecil St, Somerset Rd, Capricorn Hwy, Moonmera st, Nerkool St, Kabra Scrubby Creek Rd, Bunerba St, Morgan St, Williams Rd, Wigginton Rd, Wiseman St and Windah St.
The power is estimated to be back on by 7pm Friday. The faults line for Ergon Energy is 13 22 96.
Queensland Ambulance Services have treated 12 patients for heat-related incidents. There has been a total of 23 patients since since last Thursday.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk is also in town visiting properties in Kabra and Mount Larcom.
2PM: MULTIPLE houses are under threat at Meteor Park road, Kabra.
A water bomber is being requested for assistance.
14 crews are scene now.
A leave now alert for was issued at 1pm for Stanwell and Kabra residents as a large fast-moving fire is travelling in a northerly direction.
The fire is likely to impact Lion Mountain rd, Bond rd and surrounding streets in the coming hour.
1.45PM: A LEAVE NOW alert has been issued for The Caves.
A fast-moving fire is travelling in a north-easterly direction from Barmoya Rd towards Whitings Rd, Ladynskis Road, Olsens Caves Rd and The Caves Tourist Park as at 1.25pm. It is expected to impact in an hour.
The fire could have a significant impact on the community.
There are 13 crews on scene now.
Crews are being requested to go to Wiggington Rd at Kabra as a structure is on fire. It is believed a home on this property has already been burnt.
1.15PM: ALTON DOWNS, Stanwell and Kabra residents are being asked to leave now.
The latest warning from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services has been upgraded to a "watch and act".
At 1pm, it has been noted a large, fast-moving fire is travelling in a northerly direction from the Stanwell and Kabra areas towards Alton Downs. The fire is likely to impact Lion Mountain Rd, Bond Rd and surrounding streets in the coming hour.
Alton Downs residents should leave via Ridgelands Rd. Residents in Stanwell or Kabra should leave via the Capricorn Highway. Residents should take refuge with family or friends in a safe location or head to the Rockhampton Showgrounds refuge centre.
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you believe you are under threat.
12.30PM: YESTERDAY'S Gracemere fire was so intense it created its own weather system.
Chair of the Rockhampton Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Cr Tony Williams said firefighters were confronted by the highly unusual and challenging conditions.
"Yesterday the QFES were battling unprecedented fire conditions, with firefighters who have been in the service for decades saying they have never seen anything like it," Cr Williams said.
"The firestorm was generating its own weather which made it travel in two opposite directions.
This made it very hard to track, and I want to commend the QFES personnel for working against some horrific conditions to control a firestorm that was unlike anything we have experienced before."
Cr Williams also thanked the out of state fire services who have traveled to Central Queensland to help battle the many fires across the region.
New South Wales sent two 737s which were able to drop 20,000 liters of water at a time, which according to Cr Williams 'reshaped the fires'.
"This is what saved the entire township of Gracemere from a direct fire attack," he said.
"Without this assistance, we would have woken to a very different scenario not only for Gracemere but also for South Rockhampton. I cannot emphasize just how thankful we are for this vital help and the improved wind conditions overnight."
While residents from around the Gracemere and Kabra area's sought refuge in Rockhampton, may of the reported 8,500 people who were evacuated stayed with family and friends.
Rockhampton Regional Council has revealed that 111 people stayed overnight at the Rockhampton Showgrounds evacuation centre, while 157 people stayed at the University.
Schools are also expected to re-open from tomorrow.
10.17AM: POLICE have been praised for their efforts in evacuating people from Gracemere.
Authorities have also confirmed they have not had any official reports of looting, advising that police stay on the ground unless the fire is putting them in immediate danger.
"Yesterday the QFES were battling unprecedented fire conditions, with firefighters who have been in the service for decades saying they have never seen anything like it," Cr Williams said. "The firestorm was generating its own weather which made it travel in two opposite directions. This made it very hard to track, and I want to commend the QFES personnel for working against some horrific conditions to control a firestorm that was unlike anything we have experienced before."
10AM: COUNCILLOR Tony Williams believed Gracemere 'dodged a bullet' yesterday and says it's largely due to the efforts of fire bombers which have been flown in to assist in all the Queensland fires.
He said the water bombing efforts turned the fire back on itself and saved homes in Gracemere.
Sadly some homes at Kabra were lost, but Cr Williams said a fire impacting Gracemere could have been a disaster the likes of which Queensland has not seen before.
However, he pointed out the region was "not out of the woods yet" and warned people not to get complacent with ongoing heat conditions.
9.50AM: GRACEMERE cattle sales have been cancelled for tomorrow.
The fires in the surrounding areas have caused a power outage which means the pump cannot run and water is limited.
Cattle are penned in a main yard where they have access to water.
This is the first time the sales have not run due to a fire with other closures being for floods and cyclones.
Rubbish collections to Gracemere have also been cancelled for today, council will make alternative arrangements at a later date.
9.30AM: MOUNT Larcom State School has survived last night's devastating bushfires, with the only minor damage to the property.
8.50AM: FIRST responders are being praised for their efforts in protecting the region, with offers of support from local businesses.
From Degani cafe, Allenstown: All the first responders working hard over the past 24 hours with the fires feel free to drop in today and coffee is on me. Come in uniform or show your badge well look after you! If you need some coffee on the way to work or just a pick me up to keep going.
8.30AM: AT least two farmhouses in Kabra have been burnt to the ground.
Residents are returning after being evacuated overnight.
Morning Bulletin paper deliveries have been affected, with papers not delivered to parts of Sullivan Rd to McEvoy Rd and Fairybower Rd.
Some papers were also not delivered along the Capricorn Hwy.
7.50AM: THE Bruce Hwy has re-opened, but access to the Mount Larcom township remains closed.
Reports from people at Alton Downs suggest the wind is picking up again and smoke remains thick.
7AM: MOTELIERS and hoteliers reported doing a roaring trade last night as displaced Gracemere residents sought shelter. A receptionist at The Edge Apartments said demand had been unprecedented. "We could have sold out of rooms three times over," he said. "Every motel room in the city is booked."
5.50AM: GRACEMERE residents can return to their homes after the emergency evacuation order was cancelled a short time ago, but the danger for the region is not over.
Police are reopening the roads into Gracemere as of 5.45am but Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow urged people to take care and not to rush due to the high volume of anticipated traffic.
"It's not over yet," she said at 5.45am.
"Catastrophic is over for us. Heat will be an issue but the fire danger isn't over. Stay alert."
No homes were lost at Gracemere.
There has been some damage to structures at Kabra and Stanwell but details are still sketchy as to whether any homes have been lost.
A top of 38 degrees is predicted in Rockhampton, with winds southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light in the evening.
5am: THE Capricorn Hwy remains closed following 4.30am updates provided to Queensland Fire and Emergency Services from police located at Kabra.
According to Main Roads and Traffic current advices the Bruce Hwy also remains closed south of Raglan in both directions.
The fire at the Caves is still burning but within containment lines say fire fighters at the scene at 4.30am.
A number of rural units in the Bouldercombe area are heading home after a night of fighting and monitoring blazes.
There have been no further emergency advices overnight from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services for the Rockhampton region following the evacuation at Gracemere and the direct attack by units on the fire at Gracemere.
Weather conditions for Capricornia have eased from yesterday's catastrophic fire danger grading and the fire danger rating today is currently very high.
Further updates to follow when information is provided by authorities.
WEDNESDAY
11.12PM: Fireys saying they are undergoing a direct attack on the Gracemere fire to get them under control as conditions ease. Fatigue management is becoming an issue however.
10.20PM: Rockhampton Regional Council says it's getting a lot of phone calls from people wanting to register they're safe and sound and have evacuated from Gracemere, Kabra and Stanwell.. "We're extremely glad to hear it, but please do not call the LDCC as we're not the right site to register on - the place to register is with the Red Cross and they have a website up and running now for people to access. Thanks everyone."
https://register.redcross.org.au/
10.07PM: Keppel MP Brittany Lauga has claimed on social media that some of the CQ fires may have been deliberately lit.
"Today we have seen unprecedented weather in Central Queensland," she wrote.
"It was like a hot, dry cyclone that tore through the place with several dangerous fires all over Gracemere and Livingstone threatening homes. It is extremely disappointing some of these fires were reportedly deliberately lit.
"Arsonists deserve the full force of the law for the damage and risk to our community.
"Reports suggest that we still have four more days of this extreme weather so we must all prepare our bushfire plans, listen to updates and be ready to help each other out.
"Thank you so much to the men and women on the ground fighting these fires, the Local Disaster Management Group, the journalists who have been emergency broadcasting for days now, the hospital staff busy treating patients and everyone who has worked so fast today to provide the support to our community. You are amazing!"
10.03PM: Unconfirmed reports on social media claim four adults arrested in Gracemere for looting. Apparently coming in the back of Gracemere from Mt Morgan Road.
10PM: The Rockhampton Local Disaster Management Group has tonight been advised by Queensland Fire and Emergency Service that no property has been damaged in Gracemere as a result of the fires.
QFES has also advised the LDMG at the latest briefing that the fire has slowed down around Gracemere.
About 400 evacuees have attended the shelter at the Rockhampton Showgrounds with Red Cross and council staff on site.A further update is expected to be provided later tonight on conditions.
9.42PM: Disaster management group has just finished meeting in Rockhampton. Reports some people may be allowed to return to their homes at Kabra and Gracemere later this evening.
Waiting to see if visibility clears in the next hour Conditions have improved allowing fireys to get on top of fire. Extra resources being flown in tonight ahead of tomorrow.
9.35PM: People are still being told to leave immediately in Gracemere. The fire is heading east towards Gracemere and expected to impact the town in the next few hours.
Conditions are still very dangerous.Fires also burning at The Caves and Mt Larcom.
9.31PM: As the fire crisis developed, 800 head of cattle was moved out of the Gracemere saleyards under sprinklers.
9.30PM: Reports several properties at The Caves have lost power.
9.25PM: It's still 32C in Rocky but wind gusts have dropped right back to 11 km/h. At 2.30pm an 85km/h gust was recorded in Rocky.
9PM: THE FIRE at Gracemere is reducing its intensity however the danger is still very real.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk have warned Central Queensland residents the fires that engulfed the region today will continue in coming days.
"We are not through this yet"," the Premier said.
Heatwave conditions are predicted to hang around until next Tuesday.
Ms Palaszczuk said fireys are working through the night as the fire threat remains at a high level.
She said things were going smoothly on the ground and we may see an easing in conditions soon.
It will be "serious conditions" until the heatwave is predicted to end mid next week.
QFES predictive services inspector Andrew Sturgess said we have seen "catastrophic fire danger and incredible fire behaviour".
"Firefigters are working really hard to suppress that fire in Stanwell," he said.
He said residents of Rockhampton should not be worried.
"On the best available information, on the best weather intelligence, the best fuel, the best stimulation - the communities of Rockhampton won't be impacted," he said.
"Not by the flames of the fire, they may by the debris and they will definitely see the smoke.
"We are not expecting to see the fire get around Rockhampton."
As the night kicks in and temperature begin to reduce, the smoke will lower to the ground.
There are 300 firefighters on the ground on fires throughout the Central region from throughout Australia including Victoria, Western and South Australia.
Aerial tankers have also been used and have been of "great assistance".
However, they cannot operate through the night and some areas are too dangerous to have crews on the ground.
8:40PM: KABRA and Gracemere residents are again being told to leave their properties as a large bushfire approaches the towns.
The fire, formally the Stanwell fire, has crossed the highway and is approaching Gracemere and Kabra.
"The fire has crossed the Capricorn Highway near Morgan Street, Wiseman Street, Somerset Road and Moonmera Street, Kabra," the warning read.
"Structures near Morgan Street, Wiseman Street, Somerset Road, and Moonmera Street, Kabra are now under threat. Evacuate immediately if it is safe to do so. "All residents at Kabra, Gracemere and surrounds should evacuate in an easterly direction along the Capricorn Highway to the Rockhampton Showgrounds at Wandal, or a friend/family member's property if it is safe to do so.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services are urging residents to leave now as this is the safest option.
8.35PM: EMERGENCY excavations are taking place in Gracemere this evening with some residents needing emergency assistance.
Residents at Ash Court requested assistance for an urgent evacuation shortly after 8pm tonight.
Another resident in Conaghan St requested for assistance for evacuation shortly before 8.30pm.
Residents from Gracemere and the surrounding areas were told to leave their homes this afternoon after weather conditions worsened and the blaze at Stanwell spread towards Kabra and Gracemere.
8.15PM: ROCKHAMPTON Regional Council has activated a Local Disaster Coordination Centre in the wake of multiple fires burning across the region and thousands of people evacuated.
Residents are being urged to contact the centre on 1300 652 659 for any non-life threatening requests for assistance due to the current bushfires.
The shelter at the Rockhampton Showgrounds is up and running for evacuees from Gracemere, Stanwell and Kabra areas however due to the numbers of people, residents are asked to go to family and friends if possible.
Evacuees who have animals including dogs, cats and horses are being asked to contact the LDCC to be provided with information of available areas to bring your animals.
7.30PM: UNCONFIRMED reports of structures impacted at both Kabra and Mount Larcom as crews work to protect properties near The Caves.
THE CAVES: Residents at The Caves must be prepared to leave at any time.
MOUNT LARCOM: The fire has jumped the Bruce Hwy and all residents have been told to leave.
KABRA/GRACEMERE: Structures have been impacted.
7.10PM: QUEENSLAND Fire and Emergency Fire Services have issued a Leave Immediately warning for all residents of Gracemere.
QFES have said the bushfire is approaching Gracemere, Karba and the surrounding areas and residents should leave immediately as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.
"If you cannot leave, identify where you will seek shelter from the bushfire. If you are not in the area, do not return, as conditions are too dangerous," the alert read.
"An intense, fast moving fire is travelling in an easterly direction towards Gracemere. It is expected to impact the Gracemere township in the next several hours. The fire is expected to have significant impact on the community.
"The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path. Fire crews may not be able to protect your property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door: act now."
Residents are being urged to evacuate to the Rockhampton Showgrounds immediately.
6PM: Queensland Fire and Emergency Services have warned residents of The Caves to be ready to leave at any moment.
The fast-moving grass fire is burning in an easterly direction along Barmoya Rd and is likely to impact the surrounding areas.
Fire crews are on the scene, working to contain the fire but QFES has warned they may not be able to protect every property.
5.11PM: HOMES have been impacted by fire at Kabra, according to Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.
Brian Smith, from QFES, said aerial support was being used to fight the fires.
He said there had been reports of fires spotting in the township of Mount Larcom and two people had suffered minor injuries.
The Stanwell/Kabra fire has jumped the Capricorn Hwy at Middle Creek and is moving towards Gracemere in a south-easterly direction.
It's understood at least one family may have chosen to stay at Mount Larcom but Gladstone Mayor Matt Burnett has directed the police to ensure they leave.
The Capricorn Hwy and Gavial Creek Rd are blocked by police.
4.55PM: QUEENSLAND Police have closed the Bruce Highway in both directions from Taylors Lane south to the Mount Larcom township.
BRUCE HIGHWAY CLOSURES: the Bruce Highway is completely closed in both directions from Taylors Lane south to the Mount Larcom township. Please consider stopping at an alternate township. pic.twitter.com/tb1pfQEq1V
— Queensland Police (@QldPolice) 28 November 2018
4.40PM: THE Bruce Hwy has been cut south of Mt Larcom and Local Disaster Management Groups are unable to confirm Rockhampton will be safe, with "unprecedented" and "catastrophic" conditions.
Councillor Tony Williams, chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, said entire population of Stanwell, Kabra, and Gracemere should evacuate to Rockhampton Showgrounds.
Mount Larcom residents are also being told to evacuate as the Ambrose fire threatens the township.
VIDEO: This is the view towards Gracemere from Rockhampton's City centre as bushfires impact the region. @7NewsCQ #7news pic.twitter.com/Q6dbKMTKMn
— Hayden Nelson (@haydennelson) 28 November 2018
4.30PM: MULTIPLE fires have broken out at The Caves and Mount Etna. The locations of those fires are below;
- Mount Charlton Rd
- Rossmoya Rd
- Barmoya Rd
QUEENSLAND Police have made an emergency declaration under the Public Safety and Preservation Act for the fires in the Gracemere are.
The declaration was made shortly before 4pm and encompasses the boundaries of the Capricorn Highway Wucarbrah to the Bruce Highway intersection with Yeppen Crossing. South on the Bruce Highway to the Burnett Highway, West on the Burnett Highway to Bouldercombe and then to Wycarbah.
Police are asking people within those areas to go immediately to the Rockhampton Showgrounds and register your address with police.
Buses and Ambulances are at the Blue Car Aged Facitlity in Rockhampton to evacuate residents.
POLICE are directing traffic away from Gracemere at the Gavial Creek Rd and Burnett Highway intersection.
Morning Bulletin reporters at the scene said there has been a three car accident where a car has rear-ended another at the intersection.
No one was injured.
Intensely thick smoke is now covering Gracemere.
4PM: MORE fires have broken out across Central Queensland during catastrophic weather conditions.
Traffic is backed up on the Bruce Highway between the Mount Morgan turn off and Rockhampton as people evacuate.
Reports of banked up traffic on the Bruce and Capricorn Highways into Rockhampton.
Rockhampton mayor Margaret Strelow will give a press conference at 4.30pm.
MOUNT ARCHER: There is a vegetation fire near Elida St.
THE CAVES: There is a vegetation fire near Mount Charlton Rd.
GARNANT: There is a vegetation fire near 815 Calmorin Rd.
GRACEMERE: There is a vegetation fire burning near Serendipity Way and Temora St.
NORMAN GARDENS: There is a vegetation fire burning near Yaamba Rd and Farm St.
ZILZIE: There is a vegetation fire burning near Monte Carlo Ave.
AMBROSE: Residents have been told to leave. READ MORE HERE.
3.15PM: Gracemere, Stanwell and Kabra residents have been told to evacuate to Rockhampton Showgrounds.
Up to 8000 people could be impacted.
The fire is fast-moving and people are urged to leave now.
2.30PM: The temperature has hit 43.1 degrees, according to the Bureau of Meteorology and the fire warning level has been updated to catastrophic.
Two water bombers have been called in to assist.
It is understood the the first should arrive at 4pm and the second at 4.50pm.
STANWELL: The fire burning in the Stanwell area has picked up again and a large area of grass is burning.
Air support has been requested to cover the hilly terrain.
There are six crews on scene.
KABRA: There are fires burning at Hallam Rd and Hopper Rd, Nine Mile, and Bucholz Rd, Kabra.
Residents are being urged to prepare and parts of Nine Mile Rd are being evacuated.
There is no more information available from the QFES at this time.
ALTON DOWNS: No crews are on scene yet
AMBROSE: Residents have been told to leave. READ MORE HERE.
2.10PM: Ambrose residents have been told to leave immediately as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.
As at 1.55pm Wednesday, 28 November, a fast-moving intense fire is travelling in a south-easterly direction towards Mount Larcom township.
It is expected to impact Gentle Annie Road, Taylors Lane, Mount Larcom Bracewell Road, Henicke Road, East End Road and the township of Mount Larcom around 1.55pm.
The fire is expected to have a significant impact on the community.
Conditions are now very dangerous and firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing.
People should leave the area via the Bruce Hwy and travel north. An evacuation centre has been opened at the Raglan Tavern.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology winds are also gusting up to 71kmh.
2PM: A vegetation fire is burning near the woolwash at Point Curtis with one crew on scene and four more on the way.
The fire is burning near Point Curtis Rd and Gladstone Rd and residents and motorists in the area are being warned to stay safe and drive to the conditions.
As many as 11 fire crews are also battling a bushfire at Josefski Rd near Stanwell that has been burning since Monday morning.
Crews arrived back on scene before 6am this morning.
No property is currently under threat, but according to reports from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services there are some homes and structures nearby.
1.15PM: A FIRE near Stenovich Rd at Ambrose has just been upgraded to Watch and Act level.
Up to 10 fire crews were called to the scene 70kms south of Rockhampton this morning shortly after 10.30am, and one more vehicle is on the way.
1PM: THE temperature in Rockhampton hit 42.6 degrees at 12.40pm this afternoon.
Residents woke up to higher humidity this morning after the hot, dry conditions of the past few days but at noon today humidity had dropped to just 17 per cent with the north westerly winds blowing at 43kph and gusting to 50kph.
Yeppoon was 33.1 degrees at midday but felt like 36.8 with 61 per cent relative humidity.
Yeppoon's maximum temperature for today is forecast at 40 degrees and 42 degrees in Rockhampton with hot and windy conditions.
Rocky's lower humidity meant the apparent temperature, which is what it actually feels like, is 36.5 degrees.
The only town anywhere in Central Queensland, including the Central Highlands, Central West and Whitsunday region with a higher temperature than Rockhampton at lunch time was Proserpine which hit 42.8 degrees.
Several fires are still burning in the Rockhampton region. A fire burning near Ambrose has just been upgraded to Watch and Act and residents should prepare to leave.
Rockhampton's Local Disaster Management Group moved into the alert stage this morning as a result of today's Extreme fire risk.
LDMG chair, Cr Tony Williams says the council has been checking fire trails and making sure resources are available and at the ready if required.
"The LDMG will continue to keep an eye on these conditions and advise of any changes, residents will also receive a text message from the state disaster centre."
Rockhampton Region mayor Margaret Strelow is urging residents to stay vigilant, hydrated and to check on elderly neighbours during the heatwave conditions that are forecast to linger for the next week.
"With today's extreme heat conditions today might be a good day to go shopping or visit our regional libraries if you haven't got air-conditioning at home," Cr Strelow said.
"Heat-related illness can be fatal, so if you have an elderly neighbour please check on them and also make sure your pets have plenty of shade and water.
"Wind changes are predicted this afternoon so we ask for residents to help by clearing their fence lines, if safe to do so, and to stay up to day with warnings through local radio stations and Rural Fire Service website."
FIRES BURNING IN THE GREATER REGION
1 Stenovich Rd, Ambrose
- Vegetation fire
- Response date: 28/11/18 10.39am
- Vehicles on scene: 7
- Vehicles on route: 4
- Last updated: 28/11/18 12.21pm
1594 Old Byfield Rd, Cobraball
- Vegetation fire
- Response Date: 28/11/2018 12:18 P.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 0
Vehicles on Route: 1
Last Update: 28/11/2018 12:22 P.M.
Pocket Creek Rd & Carnells Rd, Wowan
- Vegetation fire
Response Date: 26/11/2018 10:34 P.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 0
Vehicles on Route: 0
Last Update: 27/11/2018 2:20 P.M.
Thompson Point Rd, Nankin
- Vegetation fire
- Response Date: 25/11/2018 5:27 P.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 0
Vehicles on Route: 0
Last Update: 25/11/2018 6:57 P.M.
175 Josefski Rd, Stanwell
- Vegetation fire
- Response Date: 26/11/2018 11:16 A.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 3
Vehicles on Route: 3
Last Update: 28/11/2018 12:18 P.M.
Glendara Rd, Dingo
- Vegetation fire
- Response Date: 28/11/2018 11:30 A.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 1
Vehicles on Route: 0
Last Update: 28/11/2018 12:10 P.M.
344 Bridgewater Rd, Dingo
- Vegetation fire
- Response Date: 26/11/2018 11:02 A.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 0
Vehicles on Route: 0
Last Update: 27/11/2018 2:27 P.M.
402 Charlvue Rd, Dingo
- Vegetation fire
- Response Date: 15/11/2018 11:58 A.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 0
Vehicles on Route: 0
Last Update: 27/11/2018 4:54 P.M.
Capricorn Highway
- Vegetation Fire
- Response Date: 28/11/2018 12:01 P.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 0
Vehicles on Route: 1
Last Update: 28/11/2018 12:27 P.M.
1920 Springwood Rd, Albinia
- Vegetation fire
- Response Date: 24/11/2018 1:48 P.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 0
Vehicles on Route: 0
Last Update: 24/11/2018 6:24 P.M.
Carnarvon Gorge Rd, Carnarvon Park
- Vegetation fire
- Response Date: 25/11/2018 11:04 A.M.
Vehicles on Scene: 0
Vehicles on Route: 2
Last Update: 28/11/2018 12:01 P.M.
Originally published as ROLLING COVERAGE: Possible fire at Mount Larcom
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