Central Highlands Bushfires Update: 29 February 2024 - 1230hrs

From Tasmania Fire Service, Parks and Wildlife Service and Sustainable Timber Tasmania

Tasmanians are being encouraged to continue to monitor conditions and avoid smoke, as bushfires continue to burn in the state’s Central Highlands.

There are currently two Advice warnings and a Smoke Alert that remain in place for areas of the Central Highlands and surrounding areas.

Incident Controller (IC) Mark Klop said over 100 firefighters from Tasmania Fire Service (TFS), Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) and Sustainable Timber Tasmania (STT) continue to work on controlling the fires.

The fires in the Central Highlands have burnt approximately 5,454 hectares.

IC Klop said, “Firefighting efforts are continuing to make good progress”.

“Although Tasmania received over 1500 lightning strikes overnight, these have not disrupted firefighting operations. Members of the public are encouraged to report any sign of smoke by calling ‘000’”.

“Three vegetation fires caused by lightning were reported in the South which were quickly extinguished by brigades. Aircraft are continuing to investigate for any potential new fires.”

IC Klop said “we recognise the inconvenience of these fires for the farming community; however, safety is always our number one priority. These road closures allow us to assess fire-impacted trees and take appropriate action. When safe to do so people will be allowed back into areas that have been affected by the fires”.

“As well as our ground crews, we have Remote Area Firefighters, heavy machinery and our aircraft working to control the fires.”

IC Klop said, “Tasmanians need to stay alert, and make good, educated decisions and refer to their Bushfire Plan”.

“Please avoid any unnecessary fires in the landscape, it’s extremely dry out there, and take extra care if you are using any kind of machinery or equipment that may cause sparks.”

To check the Fire Danger Rating in your area, visit www.fire.tas.gov.au/fire-danger-rating/summary/

For information on current road closures, visit www.police.tas.gov.au/community-alerts/

For bushfire warnings and alerts and visit TasAlert.com or listen to ABC Radio as your emergency broadcaster.