Ken O'Dowd (Flynn, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

Fire started in the Deepwater National Park on Saturday and immediately spread. Over 20,000 hectares have been lost to the fire in Deepwater, Baffle Creek, Rules Beach and Oyster Creek. This area of land is situated between Bundaberg and Gladstone. We have more than 70 ground crew fighting the fires, and 100 New South Wales fighters have also arrived. Victoria is also sending reinforcements. I thank those two states for their efforts. There are seven water bombers, including a 737 water bomber from Sydney.

Deepwater is an environmentally sensitive area. No fire retardants can be used putting out the fires. There are two evacuation centres: one at Miriam Vale and one at Agnes Water. Because the fire temperatures are six to 10 per cent higher than normal, this is causing further problems. These firestorms are now ripping through parts of Rules Beach and other areas. I urge all local residents to stay vigilant, listen to your local authorities, stay cool and hydrated and adhere to all warnings. Thank you.

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