Gold Coast bushfire brought under control but blaze expected to burn for days
Firefighters have worked through the night to contain a bushfire burning in a Gold Coast suburb, but the saga is far from over
Gold Coast
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A wild bushfire burning through the Gold Coast’s west has been contained overnight, though officials warn the blaze is still expected to burn through grassland for days.
A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokeswoman said the fire is still burning within containment lines bordered by Felling Dr and Maudsland Rd.
“The fire is contained, however it is expected to continue burning over the next few days. Crews will continue to monitor and patrol the fire ground,” the spokeswoman said.
It is expected to throw smoke over Maudsland and Pacific Pines for the next few days as it continues to burn.
Fire crews worked through the night to contain the Maudsland fire, doing major backburning work.
Twenty-three fire trucks and more than 100 firefighters had earlier spent the day battling the fire yesterday, which was spurred on by hot, gusty conditions.
Crews managed to get the upper hand in the afternoon and move it away from about half a dozen homes which were under threat near Hoop Pine Circuit.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Superintendent Alan Gillespie said they had been using a helicopter to map the area for the spread of the blaze.
“We’re just out and about reassuring residents that everything’s okay, we’ve got the situation well in hand,” he said yesterday.
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Earlier flames could be seen in pine trees on the hill and smoke was engulfing a home.
“We are dealing with the second round fire season,” Supt Gillespie said.
“It is really dry through here.”
Supt Gillespie said it was not clear how the fire started.
A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokeswoman said the fire had been travelling west towards Maudsland Rd.
Rural Fire Service Area Commander Joe Cullen said the fire had not been threatening homes, but locals should stay alert.
“If they feel threatened please call triple-0 and we’ll get a truck to you as soon as we can … but there’s no need to be alarmed in general,” he said.
Nearby areas including Pacific Pines may be affected by a smoke haze today.
Residents have been warned to close windows and doors, and keep their respiratory medication close by if they are sensitive to smoke.
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