Disastrous Fire

Manawatu Times, Volume LVI, Issue 7106, 15 March 1933, Page 8

Disastrous Fire

THOUSAND ACRES SWEPT. 400 MEN FIGHT FLAMES. The most disastrous lire in tho Maryborough district of Victoria for several years occurred at Moolort on February 27 and was not stopped until approximately 1000 acres, extending toward Glengower Estate and Rodborough, had been burned. Tho fire started near tho property of Mr A. Mourcll. Fanned by a strong north-west wind, the fire made rapid progress into 450 acres of property owned by Mr R. Bucknall, and there destroyed a small house, outbuildings, garage and car. At this point the flames were almost checked when a sudden gust of wind carried blazing straw across the Toad into another heavily-grassed paddock, also belonging to M.r Bucknall. Practically all this area was swept, sheep being removed to a neighbouring paddock in time to be saved. Wheat standing in the homestead paddock was damaged. This is held on the share system by Messrs. Bucknall and Nichoils Bros., and although sold was not covered by insurance.

The flames travelled about two miles on a wide front to Middle Creek, passing through heavily-grassed country owned by Mr S. Lloyd, of Rodborougk, and destroying fencing. The lire jumped a three-chain road and also a creek, but was eventually checked at, fallow paddocks in the properties ol Messrs. Nicholls Bros, and S. Body. Breaks were burned to save Nicholls Bros.’ homestead and haystacks. But for the fallow the fire would certainly have travelled many miles fuithci. Volunteers from all parts of the district responded to the call, and it was estimated that at one stage 400 men were fighting the flames.