Threatened By Fire
(Special). RUSSELL. This Day. The northern section of Russell, including the historic flagstaff. was threatened by fire yesterday and last night.
The flagstaff was saved by the prompt action of Mrs T. Clifford, who carried water from her cottage and quelled the fire which was consuming the totara posts at the base.
About 500 acres of scrub and pastures were ignited by a fire which started at Tapeka Point and, driven by an easterly gale, spread rapidly. The wind dropped last night and with a light fall of rain assisting the fires died, being completely out this morning.
A party of volunteer helpers from Russell, under Constable E. J. Gibbs, went to Brick Bay and fought the flames that were endangering a residence occupied by Mr and Mrs W. Palmer and by burning the grass round the building were able to save it. Another band of residents stood by to prevent the fire from entering the township. All through yesterday a heavy pall of smoke rolled over Russell and the Bay of Islands, and last night the flames were visible for many miles. Damage was confined to native bush, pastures and fences. As there has been little rain in recent months, the scrub was tinder dry and the fire crossed pastures with great rapidity.
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Bibliographic details
Northern Advocate, 15 March 1947, Page 5
Word Count
217Threatened By Fire Northern Advocate, 15 March 1947, Page 5
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