The grass and scrub fire on the western side of the Crater Lakes precinct is now contained. The fire is still smouldering and the area remains closed until further notice to enable fire control to continue in the coming days and for damage assessment to begin.
The MFS has asked members of the public to avoid the area due to falling trees, branches and hot spots on the ground. Carinya Gardens Cemetery, Potters Point, the Valley Lakes precinct and associated walking trails remain closed. “There is still some uncertainty around conditions and we understand that the fire will smoulder for days and even weeks to come. Therefore, it is important to avoid the area to ensure public safety and so we can start the assessment process to develop a plan for recovery,” City of Mount Gambier CEO Sarah Philpott said.Once the Crater Lakes area is returned to the care and control of the City of Mount Gambier the assessment process will begin.“When we have an idea of the recovery work that is required in the areas affected by the fire, there will be a phased opening of the space to the community. This will really depend on what we find, but we will keep the community informed as soon as we know more.”Mayor Lynette Martin acknowledged the expertise and support provided by emergency services personnel and volunteers in challenging conditions and terrain. "On behalf of Council and the community I acknowledge and thank all of the emergency services, groups, organisations, businesses and volunteers involved in fighting the fire over the past two days," Mayor Martin said.“We are very grateful for the immediate response provided to save our beautiful Valley Lakes area. It has been an absolutely sensational coordinated effort and it is so good to see so many people come together to find solutions in times of need.”“I also thank those who have expressed interest in providing assistance during the recovery phase. We will better understand the help that we will require moving forward after the assessments are completed.”The fire was first reported at about 2:30am on 25 January 2022 after flames were seen near Centenary Tower. An MFS rotating crew will continue to monitor the area overnight and will reassess in the morning. Further information will be provided following an MFS and CFS incident debrief mid-afternoon Thursday 27 January 2022.
Media contact: City of Mount Gambier Media and Communications Coordinator Sharny McLean on 8721 2401 or smclean@mountgambier.sa.gov.au
