Jereme Lane

Journalist

Fires burnt through areas of bushland in Douglas Shire last night coming close to homes around Mowbray and Pebbly Beach.

According to Queensland Police, approximately eight unauthorised fires have been lit next to the highway along the MacAlister Range with several started around lunchtime on 15 September and several more yesterday at unknown times.

The fires stretch as far south as Red Cliff Point and according to Port Douglas Police Sergeant Damien Meadows, the pattern of the fires suggests arson.

“We don’t know for certain yet but the location and frequency of the fires is very suspicious,” Sgt Meadows said.

Meadows said the fires came very close to homes and businesses and the smoke presented a significant hazard for vehicles driving on the Captain Cook Highway last night.

Some fires are still burning and emergency services said they could continue smouldering for several days.

Police are appealing to members of the community for any information about suspicious behaviour or activity since Wednesday lunchtime, in particular, any information about vehicles parked or pulled off on the side of the road. Anyone with a dashcam is being asked to review the footage for anything suspicious, especially cars parked along the side of the road near where fires were started.

“Please if anyone has even the slightest bit of information, please contact Crimestoppers or call Policelink on 131444,” Meadows said.

Police also confirmed media reports that several fires were lit south of Cairns during the same period including one that forced bushwalkers to be evacuated from Walsh’s Pyramid. This brings the reported total to 13 fires however police are still uncertain whether there is a connection between the fires south of Cairns with those in the Douglas Shire.

“Obviously these things are very hard to prove but it seems strange to think that this is a coincidence especially at this time of year,” Meadows said.

More to follow