Ellenbrook Bushfire Emergency Downgraded as Blaze Brought Under Control
Emergency warnings have been downgraded for a bushfire that came perilously close to homes in Perth's north-eastern suburb of Ellenbrook, with authorities confirming the raging blaze is now stationary, contained, and under control.
Evacuations and Terrifying Moments for Residents
Residents in parts of Ellenbrook were forced to evacuate on Thursday afternoon as flames advanced dangerously near residential properties. Some locals had to shelter indoors, watching in horror as the fire raged just metres away across the road from their homes.
Ellenbrook resident Matt Beilken described the terrifying moments when he had to quickly evacuate his two young children to a neighbour's home minutes before flames approached his property. "Initially it was moving in a sort of northerly direction and then at one stage we had a wind change, and it came straight at my house," he told The West Australian. "I had to seek shelter at one stage because the flames were coming right up to my garage."
Beilken recounted how he quickly threw his children and dog into the car when he realised the fire was heading his way, asking a neighbour to look after them. "The kids got pretty freaked out at one stage," he added, highlighting the emotional toll of the emergency situation.
Firefighting Response and Containment Efforts
The bushfire, first reported around 2.45pm on Thursday, prompted a massive emergency response. DFES incident controller Tim McGrade confirmed that 75 crews had been deployed to battle the blaze, with multiple water-bombers providing crucial assistance from the air throughout the operation.
By approximately 11pm on Thursday, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services had downgraded the alert level to advice status for the area bounded by Galatea Pass, Farmaner Parkway, Kerang Way, and Elmridge Parkway.
A DFES spokesperson stated: "The alert level for this has been downgraded as the fire is stationary. There is no threat to lives or homes. Continue to stay alert and monitor your surroundings. Be aware of other potential dangers such as falling trees and damaged properties and infrastructure."
Damage Assessment and Ongoing Investigation
The blaze has razed approximately 15 hectares of land, with photographs taken in the aftermath showing burnt trees and scrubland just metres from residential properties. The cause of the fire remains undetermined at this stage, with authorities not ruling out the possibility of arson.
A police spokesperson said on Friday: "The cause of the fire is undetermined and Strike Force Vulcan officers urge anyone with any information relating to this fire to contact Crime Stoppers."
Road Closures and Community Safety Advice
Several roads in the affected area remain closed as authorities continue to manage the situation and assess damage. These include:
- Starke Turn at the intersection of Farmaner Parkway
- Elmridge Parkway at the intersection of Farmaner Parkway
- Musselbrook Trail at the intersection of Elmridge Parkway
Motorists have been advised to avoid the area, reduce speed, and drive carefully if travel through nearby locations is necessary. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as the community recovers from the bushfire emergency.
