Australind bushfire: Residents forced to evacuate as blaze threatens lives and homes

More than 60 firefighters and two helicopters have been sent to WA’s South West in an attempt to stop an out-of-control bushfire burning in Australind.

Homes in Tributary Place, Leschenault, are under threat and residents on that street and in the nearby area have been told to leave now as the out-of-control bushfire threatens lives and homes.

An emergency alert was issued to people in Australind and Leschenault bounded by Forrest Highway to the east, Wellesley River to the south, Old Coast Road to the west and Marine Drive to the north about 12.40pm.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services told the South Western Times there were 24 firetrucks, 60 firefighters and two helicopters at the scene, with another three choppers requested for backup as they attempt to gain control over the fire.

Thick smoke is blanketing the area and kangaroos can be seen seeking refuge from the blaze as it hurtles in a north-westerly direction.

Kingston resident Mitchell Lawler said the firefighters were doing their best work.

“This is normal for us. I’m always flying in for work all the time, but when you look out here and see flames, it’s warm straight away, when you look at the dead grass it’s gone in two seconds,” he said.

It began at the intersection of Oakridge Road and Kenworthy Approach in Kingston just after 11am and has so far burned about 10 hectares of bushland.

At this stage there is no indication as to how it started and the blaze could take hours to control, a DFES spokesperson said.

Watch and act advice has also been issued for those further north, who are bounded by Marine Drive to the south, Old Coast Road to the west and Forrest Highway to the east.

Fierce southerly winds are likely to make firefighting efforts more difficult, with wind gusts up to 30km/h reported in the area as the blaze headis towards Kemerton Reserve.

Residents have been told to close all doors and windows as well as shut off evaporative air-conditioning units.

Those who can’t leave are told to shelter in their homes in a room away from the fire front.