SA Country Fire Service

Media release

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CFS EFFORTS CONTINUE AT ROCKLEIGH FIRE

27/03/2013

The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) continues to battle a fire in Rockleigh about five kilometres north of Monarto which has burnt through 1480 hectares since it began yesterday, just after midday.

Around 160 CFS firefighters have worked overnight to establish control lines around the eastern flank of the fire using heavy plant machinery, with ground crews also working on the northern boundary.

The western side, and a portion of the eastern perimeter still have an active fire edge, with the western boundary a concern as the terrain is rocky and steep making it difficult for firefighters to drive their trucks across this area.

CFS State Coordinator Brenton Eden says the fire is not yet contained, and seven strike teams have been deployed to the region this morning.

"Fire fighting efforts are concentrating on the eastern and western flanks, with firefighters working on dangerous terrain," the State Coordinator said.

"The unstable ground in this area is making fire fighting efforts very challenging."

Today's weather conditions, while milder in temperature, have seen gusty winds of up to 70 kilometres per hour sweep across the fire ground.

"The increase in winds is making fire conditions unpredictable," Mr Eden said.

"At the moment falling trees are of concern as they have the potential to spark up and ignite another fire, and they are hazardous to firefighters."

Several roads remain closed and there have been no reports of any damage to property or livestock.

A "Specific Risk" Bushfire Advice Message remains current for this fire with local residents advised to activate their Bushfire Survival Plan.

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

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Media information
For media enquiries call the CFS Media Line on 08 8115 3531.

Government of South Australia