TOWNSHIP ENDANGERED

Evening Star, Issue 19778, 31 January 1928, Page 10

TOWNSHIP ENDANGERED

FIRE IN DOMAIN [Pee United Press Assocutios.l MURCHISON, January 30. The township of Murchison was greatly endangered this morning by an outbreak of fire in the Domain, a reserve in the vicinity of several houses, and also of the Young Men’s Institute and the local school. The outbreak was caused by a small fire lighted by a man living near the back of the Domain getting out of control. Fanned by a light wind, the Haines quickly took hold over a wide area, running in two directions. It appeared unlikely that anything could stay their progress, and all the buildings were in immediate danger. Volunteer workers rushed to the scene, and with only wet sacks and a few buckets of water attacked the flames. The dry grass, lern, and blackberries were up to 6ft high in places, and the heat was terrific. Where possible, fire breaks were made, and after an hour’s strenuous efforts the fire was got under control. As the whole township is as dry as tinder, it was only a miracle that a save was effected, and great praise is accorded the members of the volunteer fire brigade. In the afternoon more safety breaks were made. The burning stumps are a continual menace, and all night a watch will bo kept. A much stronger wind sprang up later in the day, and it was deemed fortunate that the fire was then under control, for otherwise nothing could have saved the town. Altogether some five acres of ground were burned.