Police are continuing to investigate suspicious fires in the Limestone Coast region, however local authorities have urged the community not to become alarmed.
The investigations started three weeks ago, following the Crater Lakes blaze which started on the side of the Mount Gambier crater rim in the early hours of January 25.
Another blaze followed near pine trees at Glenburnie two weeks later.
Then in the early hours of Saturday morning a third blaze started on a logging track near Mount Burr.
Limestone Coast officer in charge Superintendent Campbell Hill said there had been numerous instances of grass/bushfire which have occurred in recent months, which was “consistent for this time of year”.
“They can be attributed to various causes including (not limited to) lightning-weather, tool/machinery, mechanical issues around vehicles/truck/trailers,” he said.
“A small number of fires are subject to closer scrutiny as the cause has not been as obviously apparent.
“A smaller number again have been deemed suspicious and are subject to current investigation.
“There is no information at this time to suggest an ongoing arson series or links between the majority of the fires, and it is too early to speculate in others.
“The fire last week on Riddoch Highway, Nangwarry was caused by a discarded cigarette.”
Supt Hill said Limestone Coast Police continued to be proactive in the community providing awareness on the impacts of fires in regional SA and deploying Operation Nomad patrols on days with Fire Danger Ratings of severe, extreme and catastrophic.
“If you see a suspicious vehicle on the side of the road or driving into pine/forest areas, please call the police assistance line immediately on 131 444.
“Likewise if you are aware of a fire burning in the region, we ask if people can proactively review their dash cam images for vision which could assist a potential investigation ie cars passing through the area on that day,” he
said.
“Police acknowledge the important role the community plays in assisting with these investigations.”
Police and CFS were called just before 4am on Saturday after reports of a fire on a logging track in recently harvested trees off Mount Burr Road, approximately 1km east of Mount Burr.
“The fire was extinguished but burnt through approximately 1 hectare of land adjacent to the forest, a SAPOL spokesperson said.
“Thankfully no-one was injured and no other property was damaged.
“Crime Scene Officers examined the scene and deemed the fire suspicious.
“Anyone who saw or heard any suspicious activity or has any information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au/.”
In other news, about 3.30pm on Friday a fire was reported in Mount Gambier’s Jens Hotel.
Police and fire crews were called to the Commercial Street East premises after reports of smoke coming from a room in the hotel.
Patrons were evacuated and roads were closed as the fire was quickly extinguished, however it destroyed an outdoor area and breached the roof space.
