Fire which threatened Alice Springs suburb of East Side ‘under investigation’

Authorities say a grass fire which threatened residents and homes in an Alice Springs suburb is now ‘under investigation’. Read the latest.

The fire which threatened homes in East Side, Suburban Alice Springs, on October 12, 2024: Picture: NTPFES

October 14: Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service says a grass fire which threatened homes in suburban Alice Springs is “under investigation”.

The fire started 11pm Friday, October 11 on Kurrajong Dr in the Alice Springs suburb of East Side, the service said, and burnt 180 hectares with firefighters working through the night to contain the blaze.

By Saturday afternoon, the blaze had been contained and firefighting efforts concluded.

“The cause of the fire remains under investigation,” police said.

“Thankfully no lives or property was lost.”

NT Fire and Rescue Service acting district officer Anthony Blakeley said the incident was a wake-up call for the community to update their bushfire plans.

“Alice Springs residences are no strangers to wildfires and mitigation strategies are crucial to ensuring your families safety,” he said.

“Update your Bushfire Survival Plan, ensure you have four metre firebreaks around your property and clear and remove all loose debris.

“I would like to commend the huge effort from NTFRS and volunteer firefighters, who worked long hours in challenging conditions, protecting the Alice Springs community.”

Watch and Act issued as fire spreads across Alice Springs suburb of East Side

October 12: NT emergency services have issued a watch and act as a serious grass fire poses a threat to residents and homes in the Alice Springs suburb of East Side.

A large grass fire in the area of the Alice Springs Telegraph Station has spread into the residential area and poses a threat to nearby residents.

The area of Reus Court, Bourke St, Dalby Court and Cavengh Crescent are all particularly threatened by the blaze as it spreads on more than one front.

Effective containment strategies are not in place for the entire perimeter, with people in the area urged to take action to protect their family and property, and enact their bushfire survival plan.

Emergency services said the situation may continue until 4.22pm.

“For the safety of firefighting crews and other vehicles, drivers in the area are urged to slow down, turn on headlights and drive safely for the conditions,” a PFES spokesperson said.

“For further information regarding bushfires, visit Fire Incident Map.”

Originally published as Fire which threatened Alice Springs suburb of East Side ‘under investigation’