Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) responded to a large grassfire in Alice Springs over the weekend.

Around 11pm on Friday 11 October 2024, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of a grass fire near Kurrajong Drive , East Side, with the fire moving in a westerly direction towards nearby residences.

NTFRS Firefighters and volunteers deployed and began working to protect lives and property, particularly in the areas behind Burke Street, while Bushfires NT assisted with aerial surveys.

Four grass fire units and two tankers worked throughout the night battling the blaze with the fire burning an estimated 180 hectares. Firefighting efforts concluded around 5:20pm on Saturday 12 October.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Thankfully no lives or property was lost.

NTFRS Acting District Officer Anthony Blakeley said “I would like to commend the huge effort from NTFRS and Volunteer firefighters, who worked long hours in challenging conditions, protecting the Alice Springs Community.

“Alice Springs residences are no strangers to wildfires and mitigation strategies are crucial to ensuring your families safety. Update your Bushfire Survival Plan, Ensure you have 4 metre firebreaks around your property and clear and remove all loose debris.”

To find out more information, visit https://www.pfes.nt.gov.au/fire-and-rescue-service/publications  and stay up to date with the Australian Warning System by checking the Fire Incident Map (https://www.pfes.nt.gov.au/incidentmap)  or by subscribing to alerts and warnings on the NTPFES website via https://pfes.nt.gov.au/newsroom/subscribe-ntpfes-media-releases-alerts.