Tara Police and Specialist arson detectives from the Crime and Intelligence Command ask anyone with information to come forward regarding a series of 12 suspicious fires in the Tara and Wieambilla areas between January and April this year.
Between 29 and 30 January this year, police and arson specialists and detectives allege seven fires were deliberately lit, one fire on 4 February another on 12 of February and three small fires on 17 April.
The 12 February fire caused 13 homes lost, burning for several days with the emergency declaration remaining in place until two days later.
An emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act with Tara police assisting with the evacuation of local residents and animals with the same fire.
The total of 12 blazes caused the destruction of 14 homes along with numerous vehicles and other structures, and over 4600 hectares of land and natural habitat burned. Several people were treated for smoke inhalation, no one was seriously injured.
Detective Superintendent Craig McGrath said it is extremely lucky no one was seriously injured in the fires.
“Deliberately lighting a bushfire can have catastrophic consequences, both to individuals and in the community,
“There are heavy penalties for people convicted of arson, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment,
“We urge anyone who has information, no matter how small, to come forward and help us put those responsible before the court,” he said.
Investigations indicate an early 90s model Toyota Landcruiser utility was sighted near many of the fire scenes. Investigations show the person/s involved may live in the Wieambilla area.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444, or report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or report online via the website crimestoppersqld.com.au.
