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FIRE WATCH: Inspector Mark Hubbard goes through operations for the Miltalie fire with Whyalla Mayor Clare McLaughlin.
Thursday, January 2, 2019
Whyalla Police have praised the City of Whyalla and Mayor Clare McLaughlin for their prompt action during the current fire situation affecting Middleback Rd.
Police Operations Inspector Eyre and Western, Mark Hubbard said the Council’s assistance had been vital in setting up roadblocks to keep motorists safe as the Miltalie fire burned in areas between Todd and Puddle Hole Dam roads and the Iron Duke mine.
Receiving a call for assistance from Inspector Hubbard on Monday evening, Mayor McLaughlin personally co-ordinated the Council effort with a crew raised and road signs rushed out to the area of the Middleback Rd affected by the fire.
“The Council help with the road closure was, and still is, greatly appreciated,” Inspector Hubbard said.
“Without the assistance of Council, and in particular Mayor McLaughlin, we could have ended up having to place a police officer on the traffic point for days.
“The Mayor was excellent and her efforts were very much appreciated by us.”
OFF LIMITS: The section of Middleback Rd closed due to the fire.
Mayor McLaughlin praised the Council staff that interrupted their holidays to rush out to the area and put up the road blocks when she raised the alarm.
“It was a late call-up on a terribly hot day so I can’t thank the Council depot staff enough for leaving the comfort of their homes to help in this effort,” Mayor McLaughlin said.
“This was a great example of the police, fire fighting services and Council working together to ensure that residents remain safe and the community is kept informed of the situation.
“The police and CFS are doing a wonderful job and we hope this fire is contained by the end of the week.”
As of this morning, the fire was not threatening any life or property with an “Advice” notice posted by the CFS. Fire fighters were hoping to have the fire under control before the temperature reached the forties again on Friday (January 3, 2020).
For more information and information links go to http://www.whyalla.sa.gov.au/page.aspx?u=182&c=77115
UPDATE: The CFS update on the Miltalie fire at 7.58am.