Katherine NT Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS), Katherine Police and Bushfires NT were called to a report of a house fire near Edith Falls, 45 kilometres North of Katherine at about 3:50 pm today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Clinton Sims, Officer in Charge of the Northern Investigations Section said it appears that a grass fire in the Region spread to the property where it initially engulfed one house in flames before spreading to a second. 

“Both of the houses were contained on the same block but fortunately neither of them had been occupied for a considerable time prior to the fire,” said Senior Sergeant Sims.

“Volunteer fire crews assisted by Katherine NTFRS fought the fire to successfully save a third house on the block which is the primary residence.  In total the fire caused significant damage leading to the loss of two houses, a demountable building, a shed and machinery.

“The fire is a timely reminder to rural property owners to ensure that fire breaks are maintained around their properties and to ensure that fires are not lit in dangerous or adverse conditions.”

Investigations have commenced by members of the Northern Investigations Section to determine the origin and cause of the blaze.