Hundreds pack community meeting for fire update

About 500 Huon Valley residents packed the Huonville Primary School hall for an update on an out-of-control fire burning in the state’s South West.

ABOUT 500 Huon Valley residents packed the Huonville Primary School hall for an update on an out-of-control fire burning in the state’s South West.

Tasmania Fire Service Deputy Operations Officer Phil Smith addressed the masses who expressed concerns about the loss of property from the blaze.

Mr Smith said the blaze, which started near the Tahune Airwalk, was now around 33,000ha in size and was putting properties in Glen Huon and Judbury at risk.

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Residents were advised to clear their gutters and follow their instincts regarding evacuating.

Mr Smith said the best thing for concerned residents to do was to “follow their noses, and if the smoke was too strong don’t take any chances”.

He also confirmed several Huon Valley properties had been lost as a result of the overnight fires, but said it was too early to reveal how many properties had been destroyed, as fire investigations continue.

Thirty-one TFS vehicles were working to contain the blaze as well as seven water-bombing aircraft.

Those taking shelter at the Huon Valley evacuation centre returned to the PCYC following the meeting.

Among those was Lonnavale resident Geoffrey Swan who has spent the past three nights at the community sleep-out centre.

“I think one of the biggest concerns out there is that sometimes you can’t smell the smoke and you think all is OK, but for us the ember threat was really concerning,” he said.

“I’m quite frustrated because it seems like others aren’t seeming to get the message. Just because you can’t see the fire doesn’t mean you’re safe.”

Tasmania Fire Service personnel lead out cars evacuating from Fourfoot Rd, Geeveston. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

Mr Swan said one of the biggest takeaways from today’s community meeting was the message from the TFS that an inevitable wind change would threaten more properties.

Also addressing the crowd was Tasmania Police Assistant Director Operations and Resources Brian Edmonds, who urged motorists to resist any unnecessary driving.

“The Huonville Bridge is closed and we will not be letting anyone through southbound except emergency workers and residents who have a legitimate reason to do so,” he said.

“This fire is far from over.

“It’s really important residents stay informed and and pay attention to updates from the TFS about any changes particularly regarding wind.”

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