The Alice Springs Counter Disaster Committee is continuing to monitor a large number of fires which are continuing to burn in Central Australia.

Incident Controller  Sergeant Shaun Gill said while fires have been contained  around the Luritja Road, several fires are still burning in the region  and containment lines are continuing to be established.

“The main threat at the moment is in the Henbury area where a large fire is still burning between the Ernest Giles Road and the Stuart highway. Our crews are continuing to back-burn and create fire breaks to contain the blaze.

“In the meantime the Counter Disaster Committee is monitoring 21 separate fires  in the region. Of particular concern are several fires to the north and east of Alice Springs including a large fire which is slowly travelling towards the Plenty Highway,” Sgt Gill said.

“Station owners have been  working to control the fires and additional resources will be allocated if required. Significant fires are also burning at Bond Springs, Pine Hill, Aileron and Hamilton Downs.

“We are also monitoring a large fire in the Barkly region near Soudan Station. The fire reportedly has a 20 kilometres front and at present staff and owners from five neighbouring stations as well as Avon Downs Police are working to contain the blaze.

“Then, near Alice Springs today NT Fire and Rescue crews have been monitoring a blaze near the Simpsons Gap turn-off and are issuing warnings to the public about smoke hazards on the roads near the blaze.

“The most important message we have at present is to motorists using Territory roads. We are urging everyone to drive carefully using headlights and be  alert for smoke hazards as well as wild-life and  livestock on the roads.

“Ideally people should postpone non-essential travel until the fire threats abate.”

Anyone wishing to report a fire or any suspicious behaviour is asked to call police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Media Contact
Theresa Kuilboer
8951 8825