Kenwick bushfire: Strike Force Vulcan deem fire that burned near highway and forced evacuations not suspicious

Arson investigators have deemed a Kenwick bushfire, which forced residents to evacuate and destroyed a shed on Thursday, was not deliberately lit.

Police on Friday confirmed the blaze was not a result of arson, after Strike Force Vulcan officers investigated the scene of the blaze, which erupted on Alton Street about 12.30pm.

The blaze sparked an emergency warning about 1pm for local residents, before it was downgraded to a watch and act about 7pm.

Police said the incident was a timely reminder for the community to remain vigilant in preventing arson attacks and assisting authorities.

Rewards of up to $25,000 are available for information that leads to the identification and conviction of an arsonist.

“Bushfires pose a serious threat, destroying bushland, pastoral land, homes and, in the worst cases, causing tragic loss of life,” a police spokesperson said.

“Community assistance is vital.

“Together, we can reduce the risk of bushfires and protect lives and property.”

A bushfire advice is still in place for locals bound by Welshpool Road East, Tonkin Highway, Brentwood Road, Brixton Street and Brook Road Street in parts of Kenwick.

There is no threat to lives or homes, but residents are urged to stay alert and monitor their surroundings.

The blaze — which was reported about 12.10pm on Thursday — is stationary.

It is not contained or controlled.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services south-east superintendent Peter Norman on Thursday afternoon said that winds burnt 93ha bounded by Welshpool Road and Roe and Tonkin highways.

“There are zero homes lost. We can confirm one shed (was burnt) but obviously fire has come up against other buildings and sheds but crews have done their best to keep it out,” he said.

An advice warning is also in place for parts of Bullsbrook and Upper Swan after a separate bushfire burnt about 349ha of land.

An evacuation centre for the Bullsbrook fire was closed as of Friday morning.

Anyone with information regarding a suspicious bushfire or the unauthorised use of a drone is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online.