2013–14 Australian bushfire season

none September 2013 October 2026 2013–14 Australian bushfire season File:2013-14 Australian Bushfire season MODIS overview.png NASA MODIS burned area detections from June 2013 to May 2014 Australia Winter (June) 2013 – Autumn (May) 2014 4 total 1 pilot contracted by the NSW Rural Fire Service (in accident) 3 other 571+ total 371 houses 200+ non-residential structures true 2012–13 Australian bushfire season 2014–15 Australian bushfire season The summer of 2013–14 was at the time, the most destructive bushfire season in terms of property loss since the 2008–09 Australian bushfire season, with the loss of 371 houses and several hundred non-residential buildings as a result of wild fires between 1 June 2015 and 31 May 2016. The season also suffered four fatalities; two died in New South Wales, one in Western Australia and one in Victoria. One death was as a direct result of fire, two died due to unrelated health complications while fighting fires on their property, and a pilot contracted by the New South Wales Rural Fire Service died during an accident. Climate summary and predictions The season was predicted to have above average fire potential for most states including portions of the north west of Western Australia, the north west of the Northern Territory and large areas of central Queensland following below average rainfall and above average temperatures in these areas in the months leading up to the fire season.http://www.bushfirecrc.com/resources/firenote/northern-australia-seasonal-bushfire-outlook-2013 Northern Australian seasonal bushfire outlook 2013 2013 7 September 2013 Bushfire CRC The year 2013 was the hottest on record in Australia, with the average temperature from September 2012 to August 2013 being calculated to be 22.9 C F 0 which is 1.1 °C (1.6 °F) higher than the 1961 to 1990 average.http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/09/03/18/16/australia-has-warmest-year-on-record-bom Australia has warmest year on record: BoM 3 September 2013 3 September 2013 Ninemsn https://web.archive.org/web/20131017120429/http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/09/03/18/16/australia-has-warmest-year-on-record-bom 17 October 2013 dead Fires of note State Start date Deaths Injuries Res. houses lost Other structures lost Area (ha) Local govt. Impacted communities Duration Ref. NSW 10 September 2013 7+ 1 several 150 BlacktownMarsden Park Investigators to probe cause of bushfires in western Sydney, as threat eases http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-11/investigators-to-probe-cause-of-sydney-bushfires/4949840 19 January 2016 ABC News Australia 11 September 2013Sydney bushfire that destroyed Marsden Park home was arson – police https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/13/bushfires-arson-western-sydney-australia 29 April 2016 Australian Associated Press The Guardian 13 September 2013 NSW 28 September 2013 1 4 15 2,600 Central CoastCams Wharf, Catherine Hill Bay, Lake Munmorah & Nords Wharf 23 days Significant fire-weather/destruction on 17 October 2013.McMahon Jeannette Bushfire emergency shifts to Lake Macquarie http://www.abc.net.au/local/photos/2013/10/18/3871846.htm 5 June 2015 ABC News Australia 18 October 2013 NSW 13 October 2013 2 several 180 HawkesburyWebbs Creek Duncan Carol Properties lost in Port Stephens bushfires at Salt Ash http://www.abc.net.au/local/photos/2013/10/13/3868002.htm 27 December 2015 ABC News Australia 13 October 2013 NSW 13 October 2013 4 33 6,600† Port StephensHeatherbrae, Raymond Terrace, Salt Ash, Tomago & Williamtown 10 days NSW 16 October 2013 5 several 55,000 Blue MountainsBell, Clarence, Lithgow, Mount Irvine & Mount Wilson 28 days NSW 17 October 2013 2 195 numerous 3,600 Blue MountainsFaulconbridge, Springwood, Winmalee & Yellow Rock 27 days NSW 17 October 2013 1 10 several 9,400 Blue MountainsMount Victoria 22 days NSW 17 October 2013 2 10 15,700 WollondillyBalmoral, Bargo & Yanderra 26 days http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/file_system/attachments/State08/Attachment_20131019_1D0FD239.pdf Update – Damage assessment and fire investigation 19 October 2013 21 October 2013 New South Wales Rural Fire Service https://web.archive.org/web/20131031193606/http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/file_system/attachments/State08/Attachment_20131019_1D0FD239.pdf 31 October 2013 NSW 24 October 2013 1 4,000 Queanbeyan–PalerangWirritin LATEST UPDATE: Firefighting pilot dies in plane crash west of Ulladulla http://www.ulladullatimes.com.au/story/1862244/latest-update-firefighting-pilot-dies-in-plane-crash-west-of-ulladulla/ 5 June 2015 Ulladulla Times 24 October 2013http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0015/4713/The-Late-David-Black.pdf The Late David Black 25 October 2013 15 October 2016 New South Wales Rural Fire Service WA 12 January 2014 1 1 57 several 390 MundaringMount Helena, Stoneville & Parkerville 4 days Offer Kaitlyn Phil Hickey Residents begin to return home after 52 properties lost to Perth Hills fire http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/western-australia/residents-begin-to-return-home-after-52-properties-lost-to-perth-hills-fire/story-fnhocxo3-1226800056158 5 June 2015 PerthNow 16 January 2014Smith Kristine Beyond the blaze 24seven 2014 1 16–19 http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/newsandmedia/24seven/24seven/DFES-24seven-2014-Issue1.pdf 29 December 2015 Department of Fire & Emergency Services 26 March 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160326183854/http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/newsandmedia/24seven/24seven/DFES-24seven-2014-Issue1.pdf deadState Emergency Management Committee Parkerville, Stoneville, Mt. Helena Bushfire Review June 2014 https://www.semc.wa.gov.au/publicationsandresources/Documents/Parkerville%20Stoneville%20Mt%20Helena%20Bushfire%20Review%20Report%20-%20June%202014.pdf 29 December 2015 Government of Western Australia https://web.archive.org/web/20160310164916/https://www.semc.wa.gov.au/publicationsandresources/Documents/Parkerville%20Stoneville%20Mt%20Helena%20Bushfire%20Review%20Report%20-%20June%202014.pdf 2016-03-10 SA 14 January 2014 24 5 several 35,000 Mount RemarkableLaura, Wirrabara & Stone Hut 30 days Bangor fire contained http://www.theflindersnews.com.au/story/2075353/bangor-fire-contained-video-photos-update/ 27 April 2016 Flinders News 13 February 2014 12 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161012012958/http://www.theflindersnews.com.au/story/2075353/bangor-fire-contained-video-photos-update/ dead SA 14 January 2014 1 several 4,500 Murray BridgeRockleigh 3 days VIC 14 January 2014 1 15 Mornington PeninsulaDromana 1 day Hillard Leith Drama in Dromana Brigade 2014 Autumn 10 http://asp-au.secure-zone.net/v2/index.jsp?id=666/730/4863&lng=en 11 October 2016 Country Fire Authority Vic 15 January 2014 1 32 90 55,100 Northern GrampiansBrimpaen, Halls Gap, Heathvale, Laharum, Pomonal, Roses Gap & Wartook 62 days Significant fire-weather/destruction on 16 and 17 January 2014.Hillard Leith January heatwave challenges firefighters Brigade 2014 Autumn 4–7 http://asp-au.secure-zone.net/v2/index.jsp?id=666/730/4863&lng=en 11 October 2016 Country Fire AuthorityGrampians blaze claims more homes than previously thought http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-01-22/grampians-blaze-claims-more-homes-than-previously/5212308 5 June 2015 ABC News Australia 22 January 2014 Vic 16 January 2014 9 several 165,800 East GippslandBonang, Deddick, Goongerah & Tubbut 70 days Significant fire-weather/destruction on 9 February 2014.2014 Goongerah-Deddick fires http://www.eastgippsland.net.au/news/2014-goongerah-deddick-fires eastgippsland.net.au Environment East Gippsland 9 April 2014 27 April 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160328181102/http://eastgippsland.net.au/news/2014-goongerah-deddick-fires 2016-03-28 Vic 16 January 2014 3 7 6,900 East GippslandBoundary Track, Fernbank, Fingerboards, Glenaladale & Mount Ray 67 days Lapsley Craig Melbourne, Victoria Community Report: Mt Ray-Boundary Track Fire, January-March 2014 2014 http://fire-com-live-wp.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/Copy-of-CD-14-282085-2014-Mt-Ray-Boundary-Track-Fire-Community-Report-FINAL.pdf 14 October 2016 Emergency Management VictoriaSeptember 2019 InternetArchiveBot yes NSW 17 January 2014 5 several 12,000 Wagga WaggaCarabost, Humula & Kyeamba Nearly 100 fires burn in NSW as firefighters get upper hand in Victoria and South Australia http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-01-19/bushfires3a-firefighters-get-the-upper-hand-in-victoria-and-so/5207034 5 June 2015 ABC News Australia 19 January 2014Emergency as out of control bushfire threatens NSW homes http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/emergency-as-out-of-control-bushfire-threatens-nsw-homes-20140119-312et.html 8 June 2015 The Sydney Morning Herald 19 January 2014Pine tees burnt in Minnimbah fire to help pay for Forestry Corporation recovery http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02-07/forestry-fire/5244610 15 October 2016 ABC News Australia 7 February 2014 SA 17 January 2014 4 several 25,000 BarossaAngaston, Cambrai, Eden Valley, Keyneton, Sedan, Springton and Truro 16 days Bushfire History http://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/about/history/bushfire_history.jsp cfs.sa.gov.au South Australian Country Fire Service 5 June 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160413132656/http://www.cfs.sa.gov.au/site/about/history/bushfire_history.jsp 13 April 2016 liveRoyal Simon Eden Valley bushfires: Community launches diary project as part of recovery process http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-09-18/eden-valley-community-launches-fire-diary-project-part-recovery/6786612 27 November 2015 ABC News Australia 20 September 2015 VIC 9 February 2014 18 several 22,900 Hume, Macedon Ranges & MitchellBeveridge, Bylands, Chintin, Craigieburn, Darraweit Guim, Donnybrook, Kalkallo, Kilmore, Mickleham, Moranding & Wallan 6 daysHillard Leith Fires burn into communities Brigade 2014 Autumn 8–9 http://asp-au.secure-zone.net/v2/index.jsp?id=666/730/4863&lng=en 11 October 2016 Country Fire AuthorityVic Gippsland fire areas 'feel forgotten' http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/ten-fires-out-of-control-in-east-victoria/story-e6frfku9-1226827168122 5 June 2015 news.com.au 14 February 2014 15 February 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140215040016/http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/ten-fires-out-of-control-in-east-victoria/story-e6frfku9-1226827168122 deadStrategic bushfire management plan West Central bushfire risk landscape http://www.depi.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/278250/West-Central_Strategic-Bushfire-Management-Plan_2014_.pdf Department of Environment and Primary Industries 9 June 2015 14 2014Hillard Leith Fires burn into communities Brigade Autumn 2014 8–9 http://asp-au.secure-zone.net/v2/index.jsp?id=666/730/4863&lng=en 27 December 2015 Country Fire Authority VIC 9 February 2014 5 47 2,800 Macedon RangesGisborne, Gisborne South, Romsey & Sunbury Russell Duncan Taking on the Gisborne fire http://news.cfa.vic.gov.au/news/taking-on-the-gisborne-fire.html 11 October 2016 Country Fire Authority 19 March 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20161012224347/http://news.cfa.vic.gov.au/news/taking-on-the-gisborne-fire.html 12 October 2016 deadMore relief urged for Macedon Ranges fire-hit residents http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-04-29/macedon-ranges-shire-urges-more-relief-for-fire/5417324 11 October 2016 ABC News Australia 29 April 2014 VIC 9 February 2014 3 10 ManninghamWarrandyte Warrandyte home survives blaze while two homes next door are destroyed http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/news/warrandyte-home-survives-blaze-while-two-homes-next-door-are-destroyed/story-fnlbzg7x-1226822456142 5 June 2015 Herald Sun 10 February 2014Gray Darren Bushfires: Preparing for the long hot summer http://www.smh.com.au/national/bushfires-preparing-for-the-long-hot-summer-20141215-127zkd.html 24 January 2016 The Sydney Morning Herald 16 December 2014 VIC 9 February 2014 3 several 9,300 MoiraBunbartha, Numurkah & Wunghnu Emergency funds released for fire-hit Moira Shire http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02-17/emergency-funds-released-for-fire-hit-moira-shire/5263654 27 April 2016 ABC News Australia 17 February 2014 VIC 9 February 2014 2 several 2,900 WellingtonJack River VIC 9 February 2014 1 1 270 Central GoldfieldsBealiba & Emu Emergency Management Victoria 2014 36–37 VIC 9 February 2014 1000+ several 3,300† LatrobeMorwell 45 days The Hazelwood Mine Fire http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/executive-summary/hazelwood-mine-fire hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry 6 June 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150412073607/http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/executive-summary/hazelwood-mine-fire 12 April 2015 dead † – A series of separate fires in close proximity. Fires by state or territory New South Wales September During August and September a total 2,322 active fires were recorded across the state.Murphy 2014 7 On 9–10 September, 59 fires ignited around the western suburbs of Sydney during one of the earliest starts to a fire season in several years.http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/bushfire-threatens-sydneys-far-west/story-e6frg6nf-1226716102131 https://web.archive.org/web/20130910055918/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/bushfire-threatens-sydneys-far-west/story-e6frg6nf-1226716102131 dead 10 September 2013 Evacuations as bushfires in Sydney's west engulf homes 10 September 2013 10 September 2013 The Australian A 150 ha on fire in Marsden Park destroyed one house and several sheds.Murphy 2013 5 Three houses were damaged and a Western Sydney University campus was evacuated as a result of other fires burning near Castlereagh, Londonderry and Windsor Downs.Murphy 2013 10 Approximately 800 firefighters and 200 appliances attended the blazes; two firefighters were injured while combating the Marsden Park blaze and another five were treated for smoke inhalation.https://www.theaustralian.com.au/in-depth/bushfires/homes-lost-firefighters-hurt-in-menacing-start-to-bushfire-season/news-story/646097b32fdde93b33b9deb69f6d73c2 NSW braces for tough bushfire season after yesterday's early outbreaks 11 September 2013 11 September 2013 2013-09-12 https://web.archive.org/web/20130912001320/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/homes-lost-firefighters-hurt-in-menacing-start-to-bushfire-season/story-e6frg6nf-1226716569941 subscription live The Australian thumb|right|Fires and smoke plumes around the Sydney region of New South Wales, 19 October 2013 On 28 September, a fire ignited on Barrenjoey headland, destroying 60 percent of the scrub and forest on the headland and damaging the roof of the cottage attached to historic Barrenjoey Head Lighthouse and a second building in the lighthouse complex. Approximately 80 firefighters and three aircraft were required to bring the blaze under control by the following day.http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/09/28/08/32/nsw-facing-severe-fire-weather Lighthouse saved from Sydney bushfire 28 September 2013 29 September 2013 Ninemsn https://web.archive.org/web/20130930151937/http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/2013/09/28/08/32/nsw-facing-severe-fire-weather 30 September 2013 deadGrubb Ben Khaicy Gemma Barrenjoey lighthouse fire contained http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/barrenjoey-lighthouse-fire-contained-20130929-2umil.html 12 October 2016 The Sydney Morning Herald 30 September 2013 Communities around Taree were also threatened by fire on 28 September; several sheds and outbuildings were destroyed by a blaze that burned 1674 ha on. Another fire ignited in coal tailings from local mining operations near Ruttleys Rd., Doyalson, during September; the hot-spots were observed by the RFS several weeks before, but could not be extinguished before hot conditions on 17 October.Vince Mary-Louise Underground fire sparks Lake Macquarie blaze http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-23/coal-fire/5041086 13 October 2016 ABC News Australia 23 October 2013 The fire would eventually burn over 2600 ha on and impact property in Cams Wharf, Catherine Hill Bay, Lake Munmorah and Nords Wharf, destroying 4 houses and damaging a further 7.Hunter firefighters take advantage of cool night, but threat not over http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-19/hunter-firefighters-take-advantage-of-cool-night2c-but-threat-/5033104 13 October 2016 ABC News Australia 19 October 2013 63-year-old retiree Walter Linder died of a suspected heart-attack while defending his home during the fire.Lake Munmorah bushfire victim Walter Linder died defending home http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-10-18/bushfire-victim-walter-linder-died-defending-home/5032670 13 October 2016 ABC News Australia 19 October 2013 October thumb|right|Homes in Campvale, near Port Stephens, following the Hank St. bushfire During October 2013, 1,162 fires were recorded in New South Wales, 19 of these being declared major incidents.Murphy 2014 45 On 13 October, a small grass fire burned through the car park of the Aquatic Centre at Sydney Olympic Park, near the Rural Fire Service Headquarters, destroying 47 cars and a motorbike and damaging a further 33.Murphy 2014 12Carr Matt Whyte Sarah Levy Megan 43 cars destroyed in Homebush fire http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/43-cars-destroyed-in-homebush-fire-20131013-2vg3q.html 12 October 2016 The Sydney Morning Herald 13 October 2013 The evacuation plan of the Aquatic Centre was employed and 500 to 1,500 people were safely moved away from danger by staff of the complex where the 2013 Buffalo Sports NSW All Schools Championships were taking place. On the same day, two houses were destroyed and another damaged by a 180 ha on fire that ignited in the Webbs Creek area, west of Gosford.Keene Neil McClellan Ben Cooler conditions aid firefighters but 63 fires continue to burn across the state http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/cooler-conditions-aid-firefighters-but-63-fires-continue-to-burn-across-the-state/story-fni0cx4q-1226739398554 13 October 2016 The Daily Telegraph Sydney 14 October 2013Isrin Kietley Webbs Creek fire still burning http://www.hawkesburygazette.com.au/story/1844386/webbs-creek-fire-still-burning/ 13 October 2016 Hawksberry Gazette 16 October 2013 Three fires ignited around the Port Stephens area on 13 October, destroying a total of 4 houses, 9 industrial/commercial/primary production buildings, 24 outbuildings and eight vehicles over a 10-day period; a further 9 houses and 10 industrial/commercial/primary production buildings were significantly damaged, also.Murphy 2014 13–15https://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/sparking-power-lines-caused-nsw-bushfire/news-story/c0558a7d69db2ede5915bf4acae636f1 Sparking power lines caused NSW bushfire Australian Associated Press 14 October 2013 news.com.au 21 October 2013 16 October 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20131016064156/http://www.news.com.au/breaking-news/national/rain-eases-nsw-bushfire-threat/story-e6frfku9-1226739345463 live The first fire, near Fingal Bay, burned 184 ha on. The second fire, ignited by powerlines arcing in high winds near Brownes Rd. and Lemon Tree Passage Rd. in Salt Ash, burned 355 ha on and destroyed four houses, a number of sheds, outbuildings, vehicles and boats.Murphy 2013 6 The third fire, which ignited near Hank St. in Heatherbrae, burned 5642 ha on and impacted on property in Raymond Terrace, Tomago and Williamtown on 17 October when driven by winds of 45 kph mph on, gusting up to 70 kph mph on.Davis Belinda-Jane Rolling coverage: Heatherbrae fire threat remains http://www.maitlandmercury.com.au/story/1847192/rolling-coverage-heatherbrae-fire-threat-remains/?cs=170 13 October 2016 Maitland Mercury Fairfax Regional Media 17 October 2013 More than 500 residents registered for assistance at the King Park, Raymond Terrace bushfire evacuation centre during the Hank St. fire.Port Stephens – bush fire response update http://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/your-council/news/port-stephens-bush-fire-response-update 13 October 2016 portstephens.nsw.gov.au Port Stephens Council 18 October 2013 13 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161013221122/http://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/your-council/news/port-stephens-bush-fire-response-update dead thumb|right|The State Mine, Mt. York Road and Linksview Road fires viewed from the NASA Aqua Satellite on 17 October 2013 On 16 October, a fire—later referred to as the State Mine fire—ignited on the grounds of the Marangaroo Army base during an explosives exercise. Firefighters were unable to combat the fire due to the danger of unexploded ordnance in the area and the presence of a no fly zone above the base. The blaze rapidly spread into rugged, largely inaccessible, country containing heavy fuel loads.Murphy 2014 18–19 Over a period of four weeks, the fire burned through 54862 ha on of scrub and forest, the majority in Wollemi and Blue Mountains National Parks. Significant damage was caused to the infrastructure of the historic Zig Zag Railway, estimated to have cost A$3–4 million; eleven engines and carriages and numerous structures for accommodation and administration were destroyed.The iconic Zig Zag railway succumbs to bushfires http://www.abc.net.au/local/photos/2013/10/30/3880208.htm?&section=news 13 October 2016 702 ABC Sydney 30 October 2013 A total of 5 houses were destroyed and one damaged across the fire ground—including 2 destroyed in Mount Wilson, some 20 km mi on from the point of ignition—7 businesses and numerous sheds and vehicles were also destroyed in Bell, Clarence, Lithgow, Mount Irvine and other communities affected by the fires. thumb|Fires to the north of Lithgow, New South Wales October 2013 The most destructive single bushfire in terms of property loss in the history of New South Wales ignited in the vicinity of Linksview Rd., Springwood, at about midday on 17 October.Bushfires in NSW 'worst in more than a decade' http://www.smh.com.au/environment/weather/bushfires-in-nsw-worst-in-more-than-a-decade-20131017-2voyu.html 17 October 2013 The Sydney Morning Herald A total of 3631 ha on of forest and private property was burned during the 27-day duration of the fire, which destroyed 195 houses and damaged a further 146 buildings in the communities of Faulconbridge, Mount Riverview, Springwood, Winmalee and Yellow Rock.Murphy 2014 32–37 A significant amount of destruction occurred in the initial hours of the fire around Buena Vista Rd., Emma Pde., Heather Glen Rd., Moray St. and Purvines Rd. A number of houses were also destroyed in Paulwood Ave., close to St. Thomas Aquinas Primary School, which was evacuated to Winmalee Shopping Centre and destruction also occurred on Singles Ridge Rd., where the children of Rainbow Pre-School were evacuated and the playground was destroyed. thumb|right|The Milky Way and Venus viewed above a bushfire in New South Wales on 26 October Also on 17 October, two other significant fires ignited; one near Mt. York Rd. in Mount Victoria and another near Hall Rd. in Balmoral. Over 22-day period the 'Mt. York Rd.' fire burned 9383 ha on of scrub and forest, the majority within the boundaries of the Blue Mountains National Park.Murphy 2014 24–26 All property losses occurred on the first afternoon of the blaze; 10 houses were destroyed and a further 3 were damaged in St. George's Parade, Mount Victoria, and a number of smaller structures and vehicles were destroyed in other streets around the town. From 18 to 24 October, there was concern that the fire could enter the Grose Valley and impact on Katoomba and the lower Blue Mountains, however a 5 km mi on containment line, constructed by specialized and experienced RFS Remote Areas Firefighting Teams in a narrow ravine, prevented the fire from entering. Over a 26-day period the 'Hall Rd.' fire burned 15657 ha on of forest within the Upper Nepean State Conservation Area and impacted the communities of Balmoral, Cordeaux-Dam and Yanderra; 2 houses were destroyed and another 2 were damaged. The fire had a significant effect on infrastructure, closing the Hume Motorway—creating a traffic jam reputed to have been 20 km mi on in length—and disrupting electrical supply to the water filtration plant for the Upper Nepean Catchment, which services four dams of Sydney's Water Catchment. Also threatened were Cordeaux colliery, a gas pipeline and communications tower.Murphy 2014 27–29 On 24 October, a pilot contracted by the RFS died in a fixed-wing aircraft accident while fighting a fire in rugged terrain near Wirritin, approximately 40 km mi on west of Ulladulla.Murphy 2014 82–83 January On 17 January, at least 50 fires were ignited in New South Wales by lightning strikes. The most destructive of these blazes burned 8000 ha on in and around Murraguldrie State Forest and impacted upon the communities of Carabost, Humula, Kyeamba and Little Billabong over a period of days; 5 houses and a number of non-residential structures were destroyed.Riverina bushfires claim five houses http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2014/01/20/3928449.htm 13 October 2016 ABC Riverina 20 January 2014Whiting Natalie Crews continue to battle Minimbah fire in southern NSW, efforts continue through the night http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-01-20/firefighters-battle-multiple-fire-fronts-in-nsw/5209566?site=riverina 15 October 2016 ABC News Australia 20 January 2014 Significant damage was also caused to local forestry, costing about A$3 million to replace. In addition, a fire near Bathurst burned through 300 ha on of pine forest and fires near Minjary claimed over 2675 ha on of scrubland.http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/20860057/two-major-bushfires-sparked-in-nsw/ NSW properties under threat from fire 19 January 2014 19 January 2014 The West Australian Yahoo7 3 February 2014 https://web.archive.org/web/20140203112146/http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/20860057/two-major-bushfires-sparked-in-nsw/ dead Queensland thumb|right|Smoke from a bushfire on North Stradbroke Island on 3 January December & January On 29 December, lightning ignited a fire on Stradbroke Island that consumed over 16200 ha on of bushland during a 17-day period. At least 850 campers were evacuated from Main Beach on 1 January and residents between Gatumba St. and Beehive Rd. were evacuated on 4 January after a fire near Myora broke containment lines. Significant damage was caused to power infrastructure and the majority of settlements on the island lost power, however no houses were destroyed in the blaze.Minjerribah Bushfire 2014 http://www.straddiecamping.com.au/bushfire_2014 straddiecamping.com.au Straddie Camping 13 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161013221015/http://www.straddiecamping.com.au/bushfire_2014 13 October 2016 deadhttp://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-01-05/stradbroke-island-residents-face-anxious-day/5185140 Stradbroke Island bushfire: residents remain on fire alert as warning downgraded 6 January 2014 8 January 2014 Australian Broadcasting Corporation South Australia December On 21 December, temperatures of up to 43 C F on and strong winds caused a bushfire between Culburra and Tintinara to burn out of control. Over 35000 ha on of grassland was burned and a hay shed was destroyed.https://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-12-21/lives-and-homes-at-risk-of-bushfire-at-culburra-and-coonalpyn/5170702 SA firefighters contain blaze near Tintinara; wild winds cause damage elsewhere 21 December 2013 23 December 2013 ABC News Australia https://web.archive.org/web/20240105175943/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-12-21/lives-and-homes-at-risk-of-bushfire-at-culburra-and-coonalpyn/5170702 5 January 2024 January On 14 January, lightning ignited a number of serious fires across the state. The most destructive fire in terms of property loss ignited in inaccessible and difficult terrain 25 km mi on north-east of Port Pirie. During a 31-day period, the fire burned 35000 ha on of scrub, forest and pasture and impacted the communities of Bangor, Laura, Stone Hut and Wirrabara; 5 houses, a timber mill, a number of sheds and 75% of the pine plantation in Wirrabara Forest were destroyed and at least 700 head of livestock died. 24 minor injuries were recorded by Country Fire Service personnel, most involving smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion. A second destructive fire also ignited near Rockleigh, in the Murray Bridge municipality, and burned through open country into scrubland. During a 4-day period, the fire burned 4500 ha on of land; 1 house and significant quantities of feed, water and fencing were destroyed. Other fires ignited the same day near Ceduna and burned at least 46000 ha on of land within Pureba, Yellabinna, Yumbarra and Watraba Conservation Parks over a 4-day period. Just after midday on 17 January, a fire ignited from a rekindle of a lightning strike in the Eden Valley. The fire spread under the influence of strong north-westerly winds and then an intense southerly wind change, with gusts over 120 kph mph on, pushed the fire northwards.Bearman Chris Thompson Kirrilly Wright Lindsey Rainbird Sophia Trigg Josh McLennan Jim Capturing Comminuty Experiences:South Australian bushfires, January 2014 2015 http://www.bnhcrc.com.au/file/5130/download?token=wkb1ULr1 https://web.archive.org/web/20241215162338/https://www.bnhcrc.com.au/file/5130/download%3Ftoken%3Dwkb1ULr1 dead 15 December 2024 13 October 2016 Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC Australia During a 16-day period, the fire burned 25000 ha on of scrub, forest and pasture and impacted the communities of Angaston, Cambrai, Keyneton, Sedan, Springton and Truro; 4 houses and significant quantities of feed, water and fencing were destroyed. Victoria Between December and April, at least 4,600 fires burned more than 463000 ha on hectares of public and private land; livestock losses exceeded 21,000 head, almost 3000 km mi on of fencing was destroyed, more than 8,000 tonnes of hay and grain storage and in excess of 22000 ha on of pasture, crop and plantation were affected by fire. Between 7 November and 11 March, Total Fire Bans were declared in all or parts of the state on 17 days.Emergency Management Victoria 2014 33 January The most destructive fire in terms of property loss during the Victorian season ignited on 14 January near Pohlners Rd., Wartook, and burned into the Grampians National Park. During the major run of the fire between 15 and 20 January, a 12 km mi on wide pyrocumulus convection column of smoke and ash was created by the fire, generating its own weather pattern including lightning.Cook Henrietta Grampians fire conditions the worst since Black Saturday http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/grampians-fire-conditions-the-worst-since-black-saturday-20140117-30zt1.html 14 October 2016 The Sydney Morning Herald 17 January 2014 Over an 81-day period, the fire burned 55100 ha on of scrub, forest and pasture and impacted the communities of Brimpaen, Halls Gap, Heatherlie, Heathvale, Laharum, Ledcourt, Pomonal, Roses Gap & Wartook; 32 houses, 90 sheds, 300 km mi on of fencing and 400 ha on of plantations were destroyed by the fire and at least 4,000 head of livestock died during the blaze and after. On 17 January, the body of a civilian woman was found in a property at Roses Gap—her death was confirmed to have been fire related. Two additional civilians were admitted to hospital with injuries related to the fire.Ferguson John Grampians inferno menaces tourist town, claims a life http://www.theaustralian.com.au/in-depth/bushfires/grampians-inferno-menaces-tourist-town-claims-a-life/story-fngw0i02-1226803763831 https://web.archive.org/web/20140117083239/http://www.theaustralian.com.au/in-depth/bushfires/grampians-inferno-menaces-tourist-town-claims-a-life/story-fngw0i02-1226803763831 dead 17 January 2014 14 October 2016 The Australian 17 January 2014 The largest fire during the Victorian season ignited on 16 January as a number of separate fires—the 'Goongerah complex' and 'Club Terrace' fires being the most serious—in mountainous terrain of the Snowy River and Errinundra National Parks in the East Gippsland region. A significant commitment of aircraft, including 9 helicopters and 5 fixed-wing aircraft, supported by an additional 6 RFS aircraft provided during February, were deployed to the fires in the remote region.Lapsley Craig Melbourne, Victoria Community Report: Goongerah-Deddick Trail Fire, January-March 2014 2014 http://fire-com-live-wp.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/Copy-of-CD-14-263151-2014-Goongerah-Deddick-Trail-Fire-Community-Report-FINAL.pdf 14 October 2016 Emergency Management Victoria https://web.archive.org/web/20161018212739/http://fire-com-live-wp.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/Copy-of-CD-14-263151-2014-Goongerah-Deddick-Trail-Fire-Community-Report-FINAL.pdf 18 October 2016 dead During a 70-day period, the smaller fires merged and burned 165806 ha on of scrub, forest and pasture and impacted the communities of Bonang, Goongerah and Tubbut; 9 houses, a number of sheds and 1250 ha on of crops and pasture were destroyed, and 100 head of livestock died. A second complex of fires also ignited north of Glenaladale on 16 January. By 18 January these fires were 3 km mi on south-west of the Glenaladale community, however all were contained the following day. The fire broke containment lines on 9 February, a day with recorded temperatures of up to 41.7 C F on and an average daily wind speed of 44 kph mph on in the area. During a 67-day period, the blaze burned 6727 ha on of forest within the Mitchell River National Park and on private property, as well as impacting the communities of Fernbank, Fingerboards, Glenaladale and Mount Ray; 3 houses and 7 non-residential structures were destroyed and 1,000 head of livestock died. February Strong winds and high temperatures of on 9 February lead to the ignition of 78 separate fires, which resulted the issuing of 150 emergency warnings during the day. The most serious fire to start during the day ignited when a tree fell on a powerline along Mickleham Rd., Mickelham.Williams v. AusNet Electricity Services Pty. Ltd. 5296 S Cl. 2014 http://assets.justice.vic.gov.au//supreme/resources/263a9166-03f7-4b3e-8ac2-437bc92fe195/fourth+amended+statement+of+claim.pdf The fire spread rapidly north and threatened 1,240 houses and 13,000 residents within the eventual footprint of the fire. At least 810 firefighters, supported by 15 aircraft, battled to contain the fire as it crossed the boundaries of 3 local government areas, and on 14 February the fire was declared under control. During a 23-day period, the fire burned 22877 ha on of scrub, forest and private property and impacted the communities of Beveridge, Bylands, Chintin, Craigieburn, Darraweit Guim, Donnybrook, Kalkallo, Kilmore, Mickleham, Moranding & Wallan; 18 houses, numerous non-residential buildings, 1600 km mi on of fencing and 9000 ha on of pasture and horticulture were destroyed by the fire and at least 16,000 head of livestock died during the blaze and after. A complex of fires also ignited around Morwell between 7–9 February, burning approximately 3300 ha on and impacting the 1165 ha on open cut portion of the Hazelwood coal mine managed by GDF Suez.Teague AO Hon. Bernard Catford Prof. Emeritus John Petering Sonia Origin and circumstances of the Hazelwood mine fire: The complexity of the Hazelwood mine fire http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-two-fire/origin-circumstances-hazelwood-mine-fire/complexity-hazelwood-mine-fire.html Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry Parliament of Victoria 16 October 2016 2014 19 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161019024823/http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-two-fire/origin-circumstances-hazelwood-mine-fire/complexity-hazelwood-mine-fire.html deadTeague AO Hon. Bernard Catford Prof. Emeritus John Petering Sonia Origin and circumstances of the Hazelwood mine fire: The Hazelwood mine fire http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-two-fire/origin-circumstances-hazelwood-mine-fire/hazelwood-mine-fire.html Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry Parliament of Victoria 16 October 2016 2014 19 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161019015542/http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-two-fire/origin-circumstances-hazelwood-mine-fire/hazelwood-mine-fire.html dead The coal dredgers and conveyor belts feeding the coal-fired generators were damaged by fire and were briefly shut down, and the fire also had a significant impact to the health of residents and firefighting personnel during its 45-day duration.Victoria bushfires: Crews work to gain upper hand on Mickleham Road fire raging north of Melbourne http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02-11/fire-crews-battle-to-gain-upper-hand-on-victorian-blazes/5251036 16 October 2016 ABC News Australia 11 February 2014Teague AO Hon. Bernard Catford Prof. Emeritus John Petering Sonia Health and wellbeing – background: Overview http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-four-health-wellbeing/health-wellbeing-background/overview.html Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry Parliament of Victoria 16 October 2016 2014 The key pollutants emitted during the Hazelwood mine fire were carbon monoxide, particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds, dioxins and furans, and heavy metals. Each of these pollutants has been linked to potential adverse health effects. Some have immediately noticeable health impacts and others have the potential to produce longer-term adverse health effects. 19 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161019025320/http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-four-health-wellbeing/health-wellbeing-background/overview.html dead Of the 28 firefighting personnel who required medical assistance, 26 were treated for exposure to carbon monoxide; 14 from the CFA and 12 from GDF Suez.Teague AO Hon. Bernard Catford Prof. Emeritus John Petering Sonia Firefighter Health: Overview http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-four-health-wellbeing/firefighter-health/overview.html Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry Parliament of Victoria 16 October 2016 2014 19 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161019022344/http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-four-health-wellbeing/firefighter-health/overview.html dead General practitioner practices in Churchill, Moe, Morwell and Traralgon reported an increase in consultations related to respiratory conditions, including breathing difficulties, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation, coughing or throat irritations.Teague AO Hon. Bernard Catford Prof. Emeritus John Petering Sonia Health effects: Overview http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-four-health-wellbeing/health-effects/overview.html Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry Parliament of Victoria 16 October 2016 2014 The Latrobe Valley community, and in particular Morwell, reported suffering distressing adverse health effects from the Hazelwood mine fire, including sore and stinging eyes, headaches and blood noses. The majority of these symptoms resolved when smoke and ash from the mine fire dissipated, but some residents reported continuing symptoms. In addition to these symptoms, a small number of residents reported developing new health conditions as a result of exposure to smoke and ash during the mine fire. There were a number of vulnerable groups in the community who were particularly susceptible to the potential adverse health effects of the smoke and ash, namely those with pre-existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, pregnant women and unborn children, children and the elderly. 19 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161019021351/http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-four-health-wellbeing/health-effects/overview.html dead Between 9 February and 10 March, 46 calls related to respiratory problems were taken within Morwell and Traralgon by the Nurse-On-Call service; approximately 30 more than on the same period in years prior.Teague AO Hon. Bernard Catford Prof. Emeritus John Petering Sonia Health effects: Health Services Demand http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-four-health-wellbeing/health-effects/health-services-demand.html Hazelwood Mine Fire Inquiry Parliament of Victoria 16 October 2016 2014 19 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161019022232/http://report.hazelwoodinquiry.vic.gov.au/part-four-health-wellbeing/health-effects/health-services-demand.html dead Other destructive fires that ignited across the state on 9 February included; thumb|A bushfire threatens hundreds of homes at Riddells Creek on 9 February 2014. A fire that ignited along Dalrymple Rd., Gisborne South, and burned 2585 ha on of scrub, forest and private property, impacting the communities of Gisborne, Gisborne South, Riddells Creek and Sunbury. 140 properties were damaged and 5 houses, 47 non-residential buildings, 160 km mi on of fencing and 760 ha on of pasture and horticulture were destroyed. The Premier Denis Napthine said "This fire went right to the edge of Riddells Creek. If the fire had got into Riddells Creek and got on to Mount Macedon it would have been an absolute disaster."Carrodus Hannah 2014-02-10 Gisborne fire was a close call https://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/2078435/gisborne-fire-was-a-close-call/ 2024-02-28 Bendigo Advertiser en-AU The fire was believed to have been deliberately lit. A suspicious fire that ignited at a number of separate ignition points along Kaarima Rd. and the Goulburn Valley Hwy., Wunghnu, and burned 9283 ha on of scrub, forest and private property, impacting the communities of Bunbartha, Numurkah and Wunghnu. Between 250 and 300 properties were damaged and 3 houses, several non-residential buildings, 330 km mi on of fencing and 2000 ha on of pasture and horticulture were destroyed.Brient Toni Cobram police seek answers http://tonibrient.com/blog/2014/2/20/cobram-police-seek-answers tonibrient.com 14 October 2016 20 February 2014 18 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161018213226/http://tonibrient.com/blog/2014/2/20/cobram-police-seek-answers dead A fire that ignited in Warrandyte and burned 11 ha on of scrub and private property, impacting houses along Amersham Dr. and Glamis St. within the suburb. Although small, the fire destroyed 3 houses and damaged a number of others.Toscano Nick Woman loses second house in two years http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/woman-loses-second-house-in-two-years-20140209-329ya.html 14 October 2016 The Age Melbourne 9 February 2014 A fire that ignited north-west of the intersection of Egan's Rd. and Yarram-Morwell Rd., between Jack River and Madalya, and burned 2879 ha on of scrub, forest and private property, impacting the communities of Jack River, Madalya and Staceys Bridge. At least 25 properties were damaged and 2 houses, several non-residential buildings, 120 km mi on of fencing and 1600 ha on of pasture and plantation were destroyed.Class action over the Jack River fire http://www.gippslandtimes.com.au/story/2605871/class-action-over-the-jack-river-fire/ 15 October 2016 Gippsland Times Fairfax Regional Media 6 October 2014 18 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161018203616/http://www.gippslandtimes.com.au/story/2605871/class-action-over-the-jack-river-fire/ deadRamsay v. AusNet Electricity Services Pty. Ltd. 05162 S Cl. 2014 http://assets.justice.vic.gov.au//supreme/resources/61f4fb74-a53d-4229-8ff0-feb1883455d1/third+further+amended+statement+of+claim+filed+5+february+2016.pdf A fire that ignited along Dunolly Rd., Emu, and burned 276 ha on of scrub and private property, impacting properties in the area and destroying a house and a shed. Western Australia 2014 Perth Hills bushfire January On 12 January, a fallen powerpole blown over by gusty winds ignited a fireSmith Kristine Beyond the blaze 24seven 2014 1 16–19 http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/newsandmedia/24seven/24seven/DFES-24seven-2014-Issue1.pdf Department of Fire & Emergency Services 7 October 2016 26 March 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160326183854/http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/newsandmedia/24seven/24seven/DFES-24seven-2014-Issue1.pdf dead in the Mundaring municipality of the Perth Hills, completely destroying 57 houses and numerous non-residential buildings. A further six houses were damaged in the suburbs of Mount Helena, Stoneville and Parkerville.McLennan Jim Capturing community members' bushfire experiences: interviews with residents following the 12 January 2014 Parkerville (WA) fire 2014 Bushfire & Natural Hazards CRC Australia 9780994169600 http://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/safetyinformation/fire/bushfire/BushfireResearch/DFES-Bushfire-Experiences-Parkerville-Bushfire-Jan12-2014.pdf 7–8 22 November 2020 18 April 2021 https://web.archive.org/web/20210418173143/https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/safetyinformation/fire/bushfire/BushfireResearch/DFES-Bushfire-Experiences-Parkerville-Bushfire-Jan12-2014.pdf dead Notes nb References Bibliography Post Season Operations Review: Fire Danger Period 2013/14 Emergency Management Victoria http://files.em.vic.gov.au/Reviews/FDP-OperationalReview-2013-14.pdf 5 June 2015 Melbourne, Victoria 2014 Victoria State Government Jacqueline Murphy 5,113 fires and counting: The fire season kicks off to an early start Bush Fire Bulletin: Journal of the NSW Rural Fire Service New South Wales Rural Fire Service 2013 35 3 http://issuu.com/nswrfs/docs/bfb_vol35_3_2013-web?e=5467805/6799069 27 December 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160324221709/https://issuu.com/nswrfs/docs/bfb_vol35_3_2013-web?e=5467805/6799069 24 March 2016 bot: unknown October 2013: A Tribute Bush Fire Bulletin: Journal of the NSW Rural Fire Service 2014 36 2 http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/25922/Bush-Fire-Bulletin-2014-Vol-36-No-2.pdf 5 June 2015 New South Wales Rural Fire Service Lidcombe Jacqueline Murphy https://web.archive.org/web/20150331195919/http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/25922/Bush-Fire-Bulletin-2014-Vol-36-No-2.pdf 31 March 2015 bot: unknown 2013 Australian bushfire Australian bushfire Bushfire Bushfire Category:2010s fires in Oceania