Firies save homes from Gympie bushfire

16 Nov 2009, 9:31 pm   -   Source: AAP
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Queensland firefighters have saved several homes that were under threat from a large grass fire burning throughout the Gympie region.

Queensland firefighters have saved several homes that were under threat from a large grass fire burning throughout the Gympie region.

Twelve fire crews are currently attending to the large grass fire off Old Greendale Road, Glastonbury, near Gympie in southeast Queensland, which started about 12.15pm (AEST) on Monday.

Earlier on Monday several homes were "under immediate threat" from the fire, however incident controller Jeff Keating told ABC radio weather conditions had eased.

"We have been able to get on top of most of the fires," Mr Keating said.

"No properties are under threat and with the current winds and weather conditions we don't expect them to be under threat overnight."

He said a family treated for smoke inhalation at the Gympie Hospital on Monday afternoon had been released.

A Department of Community Safety spokesman said despite the eased weather conditions, residents were still being urged to remain vigilant.

If residents are concerned that fire is approaching their property they are being urged to dial triple zero immediately.

Hot temperatures are expected throughout Queensland on Tuesday, with the weather bureau tipping the mercury to reach 35 degrees in Brisbane.

Mr Keating said fire crews would be battling the Glastonbury blaze throughout the night to ensure the hot weather didn't cause the blaze to break out again on Tuesday.

Meanwhile the forecasted warm temperatures have prompted authorities to extend fire bans.

The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS) has extended fire bans in Rockhampton, Banana, Gladstone, Bundaberg, North Burnett, Fraser Coast, South Burnett, Cherbourg and Gympie until November 23.

A local fire ban also remains in force for parts of Whitsunday and South Burnett.

The QFRS says fire bans in these areas may be extended again if dangerous fire conditions continue.

Meanwhile, the QFRS lifted fire bans in Richmond, Flinders, Charters Towers, Isaac and parts of Whitsunday and South Burnett.

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