Wanneroo community comes together in wake of bushfire

The bushfire was first reported at 1pm on Wednesday 22 November, quickly spreading out of control due to strong winds and unseasonably hot, dry weather.

The fire burned through 1,900 hectares, with a 60-kilometre perimeter in just four days, before firefighters were able to declare the blaze contained and under control.

Eighteen homes were lost, with dozens of homes, farms and agricultural businesses suffering extensive damage.

More than 200 residents were evacuated to Wanneroo Community Centre in Wanneroo, Gumblossom Community Centre in Quinns Rocks, and eventually the Bullsbrook Centre for National Resilience.

The City also activated an animal evacuation centre at the Wanneroo Showgrounds, where pets and livestock were supplied with food and water until their owners were able return home or move to longer-term accommodation.

Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken said the City was working closely with the State Government and numerous support agencies to get the community back on its feet.

“As we move into the recovery phase of the bushfire effort, we want to support those who have been affected by this devastating bushfire every step of the way,” she said.

“The City has established a Community Recovery Centre at the Wanneroo Civic Centre, where residents affected by the bushfire can access a range of support services, including the Department of Communities, Australian Red Cross and Emergency Services Western Australia.”

Mayor Aitken thanked the emergency services personnel, State Government departments, volunteers, City staff and community members who pitched in to keep the community safe.

“I am extremely grateful for the dedication of the staff and volunteers who have been working around the clock, fighting fires, providing medical care, supporting evacuees and keeping the public informed.

“I also want to thank the Lord Mayor’s Distress Relief Fund Board for activating the Fund, to provide immediate financial support to affected people in the aftermath of the bushfire.

"I am particularly proud of the way the community came together to support one another.

“We are very lucky to have such an incredible community here in the City of Wanneroo.”

For more information, visit wanneroo.wa.gov.au or emergency.wa.gov.au.