Gladstone bushfires declared disaster zone

Fire and Emergency Services Minister Craig Crawford has declared a disaster situation in response to the Central Queensland fires.

The Minister signed the disaster declaration for the Gladstone local government region, including the areas of Baffle Creek Catchment, Wartburg, Deepwater, Agnes Water, Roundhill, Miriam Vale and Bororen.

“These areas are under severe threat of fire or have already been hit by fire and the disaster declaration will ensure that necessary agencies, including fire and emergency services and police have the powers they need to respond effectively,” Mr Crawford said.

“This includes giving police the power to forcibly remove residents and to stop them returning to their homes until it is completely safe.

 “What we are seeing around Agnes Water is unprecedented and we need to look out for each other and for the emergency services who are working with us and for us.”

Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said he urged the community to stay safe, keeping up-to-date with the latest information.

“For any residents needing to evacuate, I recommend they seek refuge with family and friends, however, if this is not possible a Place of Refuge has been activated in Miriam Vale,” Councillor Burnett said.

“If you are evacuating your home, I urge you to register on the Red Cross, Register.Find.Reunite, so emergencies services, friends and family are aware of your location and that you’re safe.” 

““I thank the Queensland Government for their continuous support, and I want to send a thank you to those on the frontline, continuing to contain the fire.

“The outpouring of support our region has received so far is truly heart-warming.”

For those wanting to register their evacuation – please click here.