Over a challenging weekend, local firefighters and emergency responders demonstrated extraordinary bravery and resilience, tackling three separate fires in the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale. The incidents unfolded over just 48 hours, testing the mettle of our emergency services teams and the Shire's support network.

The first fire was reported in Byford on Saturday morning, 21 December. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) issued an alert for areas south of Thomas Street, east of Briggs Road, north of Larsen Road, and west of Kola Bend. The fire produced significant smoke, causing concern for residents, but was quickly contained thanks to the swift response of firefighters and aerial support.

Barely catching their breath, emergency crews were called to a larger bushfire near Wright Road and Lowlands Road in Mardella just before midnight on Saturday. The fire escalated to an Emergency Warning, the highest alert level, as smoke billowed into the sky and was visible from as far as Rockingham.

Firefighters from career fire and rescue services and volunteer brigades—including Keysbrook, Mundijong, Byford, Jarrahdale, Serpentine, and Oakford—joined forces with teams from Gosnells, Bedfordale, Kwinana South, Mandogalup, and Kalamunda. Crews battled through the night to bring the fire under control, supported by aerial suppression efforts.

By Sunday morning, 22 December, DFES downgraded the alert to a Bushfire Advice Warning, signaling that the threat had been contained. Salvation Army WA Emergency Services provided critical relief, delivering meals and offering support to the weary firefighters on the frontlines.

Fire brigades were then diverted to Whitby that same afternoon as a third fire broke out near Southwestern Highway and Reilly Road. Firefighters and aerial support swiftly responded, bringing the fire under control before it could escalate further.

Even as Sunday drew to a close, crews remained on the ground in Mardella to ensure the area was secure and the fire fully extinguished. The unwavering dedication of firefighters (both local and external), supported by volunteers and organisations like the Salvation Army, highlights the vital role these heroes play in protecting our community.

Be Prepared: Protecting Your Family and Property

This weekend serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being bushfire ready. It’s essential to:

• Understand the fire danger ratings and what they mean. 
• Familiarise yourself with the three bushfire warning levels: Advice, Watch and Act, and Emergency.
• Have a bushfire survival plan in place for you and your family. 
• Ensure your property is well-prepared, including clearing flammable materials, maintaining firebreaks, and keeping gutters clean. 

By staying informed and prepared, you can help protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community in the event of a bushfire. Visit the DFES website for more information and resources on bushfire preparedness. 

You can also download the Emergency WA app to get the latest information straight to your phone, as well as subscribe to the Shire's SMS alerts.