The Channon house destroyed in 20 minute inferno after ‘freak gust of wind’

When emergency crews arrived at the property, there was little they could do as the house was already completely destroyed.

A house in The Channon has been destroyed in a blaze on Saturday afternoon after a “freak” gust of wind spread a rubbish fire.

Northern Rivers RFS Superintendent Michael Brett said crews were called to a grass fire on Wallace Rd midafternoon when on arrival a one-storey house was completely destroyed.

He said the fire started as the residents burning rubbish when a gust of wind spread the fire to the grass and then the house became involved.

“The house was totally destroyed,” he said.

He said five RFS tankers attended the scene and one fire and rescue appliance was called but stood down on arrival.

Firefighters attended the blaze after a “freak” gust of wind spread a rubbish fire, destroying the home.

He said it took about 20 minutes for the house to be completely destroyed.

“The residents were outside, it happened so quickly for them,” he said.

“It’s just a sad event – someone had to lose their home out of something that was simple.

“They were just burning rubbish and it’s cost them their home.

“It shows how quickly things can change- it was just a freak thing.”