SERIOUS BUSH FIRES.

Waikato Times, Volume 100, Issue 16711, 29 January 1926, Page 5

SERIOUS BUSH FIRES.

AREAS IN AUSTRALIA

FEARS FOR CANBERRA.

RESIDENTS TAKE FLIGHT.

(United Press Association.) SYDNEY, January 28

Huge bush fires are raging beyond the Murrumbidgee. A strong wind is driving llic flames towards the confluence of the Cotter and Murrumbidgee Rivers. Should the Arc cross the river the bush around the Cotter dam, and the great pine plantations on Mount Stromlo, will be in grave danger. The future Federal capital, Canberra* will also be threatened^ Volunteers from Canberra have been rushed to the scene of the outbreak. Fires are also raging In the Bathurst district. They have caused heavy damage, A message fom Melbourne says bush fires in the eastern ranges arc causing extensive, damage. Residents are fleeing before the flames.

FLAKES GAINING.

SYDNEY, January 2S

The bush fires have now passed the Murrumbidgee and are approaching the north-west of Mount Stromlo, on the slopes of which are pine plantations which cost huge sums. At the top is the Commonwealth Observatory. Men arc being gathered from all parts of the district and rushed to the scene.

, FIRES UNDER CONTROL,

(Rec. January 29. 11 40. a.m.)

SYDNEY, Jan. 29

The bush fires in the Murrumbidgee district, which were threatening Canberra, are now under control, but fire fighters are remaining at their posts in case their services are heeded further.