CFS Media Release Issued 24 Dec 11:00

<Message Starts>

SA MARCOLLAT FIRE CAUSED BY ACCIDENTAL IGNITION

24/12/2012

The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) has identified the cause of the bushfire that has burnt 5765 hectares in the State's south-east to be an accidental ignition resulting from an irrigation pump.

Two strike teams worked over-night patrolling the fire at Marcollat, approximately 20 kilometres south-west of Padthaway, and are continuing to manage multiple hot-spots.

Approximately 75 CFS personnel are currently maintaining a watchful eye on the fire, particularly the western flank where heavy fuels are burning in scrub and the eastern flank where crews are working to strengthen control lines.

CFS State Coordinator, Mark Thomason, says the while the cooler weather conditions are favourable, firefighters are working on difficult terrain which is proving to be challenging.

"CFS crews with support from DEWNR, local council and farm fire-fighting units are still working to keep the fire within the established control lines to ensure that it does not break away and cross over this perimeter," Mr Thomason said.

"With the limited fire activity experienced over-night we are hoping the fire will be extinguished and mopping up can take place by this evening, so that CFS crews can return home to their families in time for Christmas."

For further information visit the CFS website at www.cfs.sa.gov.au or contact the Bushfire Information Hotline on 1300 362 361.

<Message Ends>

MEDIA RELEASE
*<Message Starts>* SA MARCOLLAT FIRE CAUSED BY ACCIDENTAL IGNITION 24/12/2012 The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) has identified the cause of the bushfire that has burnt 5765 hectares in the State's south-east to be an accidental ignition resulting from an irrigation pump. Two strike teams worked over-night patrolling the fire at Marcollat, approximately 20 kilometres south-west of Padthaway, and are continuing to manage multiple hot-spots. Approximately 75 CFS personnel are currently maintaining a watchful eye on the fire, particularly the western flank where heavy fuels are burning in scrub and the eastern flank where crews are working to strengthen control lines. CFS State Coordinator, Mark Thomason, says the while the cooler weather conditions are favourable, firefighters are working on difficult terrain which is proving to be challenging. "CFS crews with support from DEWNR, local council and farm fire-fighting units are still working to keep the fire within the established control lines to ensure that it does not break away and cross over this perimeter," Mr Thomason said. "With the limited fire activity experienced over-night we are hoping the fire will be extinguished and mopping up can take place by this evening, so that CFS crews can return home to their families in time for Christmas." For further information visit the CFS website at www.cfs.sa.gov.au or contact the Bushfire Information Hotline on 1300 362 361. *<Message Ends>*
Please do not reply to this email - you will not receive a response. For media enquiries call the CFS Media Line on 08 8115 3531. Further information Information Hotline: 1800 362 361. Hearing or speech impaired users phone: 1300 555 727 then ask for 1800 362 361. Teletype service: TTY 133 677 then ask for 1800 362 361. More options are available at National Relay Service or www.cfs.sa.gov.au. You received this email because you subscribed to our list. You can unsubscribe at any time.
www.cfs.sa.gov.au