Bushfire at Gull Rock National Park which sparked alert caused by ‘unlawful and unattended campfire’ says DBCA

A bushfire in Gull Rock National Park which sparked an alert on Tuesday afternoon and closed the access to Ledge Beach near Albany, was caused by an illegal camp fire, according to the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

DBCA firefighters and three appliances from the Kalgan Volunteer Bushfire Brigade were dispatched to the scene with water bombers also requested because of issues around access and the location of the fire.

The alert was issued at 1.08pm along with a warning that there was smoke in the area.

The blaze was extinguished without the need for the water bombers with the DBCA saying it was “caused by an escape from an unattended and unlawful camp fire” in the vicinity of Johnson Cove in Voyager Park.

“People are urged to check whether camp fires are permitted in the area before lighting one,” said a DBCA statement issued on Wednesday.

“Only use designated fire rings where fires are allowed and ensure all fires are completely extinguished before leaving the area or going to sleep.”

The area affected was listed as south of Henty Road and west of Ledge Beach Road to the coast.

Access to Ledge Beach carpark, picnic area and beach access, Mt Martin Botanic Park, Voyager Park and Johnson Cove were all closed for a spell on Tuesday afternoon.

An updated alert at 1.56pm said the threat had been reduced as the fire had been extinguished and crew were mopping up the area.

The blaze had been moving in a north-easterly direction but had not threatened lives or homes.