Community help sought to stamp out arson after spate of deliberately-lit fires in Narrogin and Cuballing

The Shire of Narrogin has called on the community to be vigilant with a recent spate of deliberately-lit fires in the Wheatbelt South suggesting the work of arsonists. The appeal comes after a fire — believed to have been deliberately lit — burned close to homes on Bannister Street near Thomas Hogg Oval on February 12. The fire was reported at 6pm and crews from Narrogin Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service attended. The fire burnt through a patch of dense scrubland around 30m in length near Thomas Hogg Oval before it was brought under control and extinguished by 8pm. Shire chief executive Dale Stewart said that the fires were concerning. “The shire is deeply troubled by the recent occurrences of deliberately-lit fires in our and adjoining communities,” he said. “We are actively working with the police, emergency services, and DFES to address this serious issue. “Our primary focus is on ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our residents and properties.” The nearby community of Cuballing has also been rocked by a recent series of fires believed to be deliberately lit, prompting the Shire of Cuballing to call a community meeting at the Cuballing Agricultural Hall at 5.30pm on February 20. Investigators urge anyone with information relating to these fires, or who has seen any suspicious persons or vehicles in the area of the fires, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report the information online.