Contractors working on a job at Turpins Falls using grinders and metalworking tools sparked a bushfire yesterday.
Shortly before 2.30pm on Tuesday callers to Triple Zero reported a large column of smoke triggering a large response from fire brigades.
The high fire danger also saw the immediate despatch of a waterbombing helicopter which was on scene in 12 minutes attacking the blaze which had quickly spread along the steep slopes on the western side of the falls.
Firefighters assisted by Forest Fire Management crews worked for three hours to contain the fire which burned through about eight hectares. The lack of wind enabled firefighters to avoid a major incident.
“This highlights how just one tiny spark can start a fire that’s difficult to control,” said one senior firefighter.
It’s understood the cost of the incident to the community is in excess of $200,000.
The contractors avoided a hefty fine as the area is just outside the adjoining Northern Country region which was under a total fire ban at the time.
