Authorities confirm no charges will be laid against campers who accidently started Waroona bushfire

Wednesday, 27 March 2024 09:01

By Monique Welhan

A group of campers who accidently started a massive bushfire near Waroona will not face criminal charges, authorities have confirmed.

The blaze was sparked on Saturday afternoon, tearing through over 3000 hectares and destroying eight properties including three homes and five short-stay accommodation units.

The cause, some campers who were charging their mobile phones with a car battery.

DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm said about 250 firefighters have worked around the clock to contain the bushfire.

“The fire is now 100 per cent tracked,” he said.

“Firefighters have been out there with rakes and shovels because of the steep terrain."

On Tuesday, crews managed to contain a flare-up which saw the bushfire warning again upgraded to an emergency.

It has since been downgraded to a watch and act for people in parts of Coolup, Meelon, Nanga Brook, Teesdale and Waroona.

Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson said the battle is not yet over.

"We are not out of the woods just yet. It’s still not under control, but things are certainly looking much better than they were a few days ago,” he said.

“I do want to emphasise over the next few days we still have some hot weather. And so I would urge people to keep safe over Easter.

“This is a situation that could have been avoided and I would urge people not to be silly. One silly mistake can lead to people losing their lives.”

For the latest bushfire information head to Emergency WA.