SA Country Fire Service

Media release

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CFS DECLARES CHERRYVILLE FIRE CONTAINED

11/05/2013

The SA Country Fire Service (CFS) has declared the Cherryville fire as contained after what has been an exhausting few days and nights for all involved.

The consistent efforts of firefighters coupled with the milder weather conditions presented late today have yielded a successful result for Cherryville residents and surrounding areas.

CFS firefighters have been working since Thursday afternoon in extremely difficult conditions along steep terrain to battle the blaze, which burnt through 621 hectares.

Although one house and two sheds were lost, CFS Chief Officer Greg Nettleton credits the saving of over 100 properties threatened to the work of firefighters on the ground.

"Significant work went into asset protection throughout the day and into the night for the duration of the fire, with firefighters working in challenging and dangerous conditions," Mr Nettleton said.

"Although there was aircraft support available during daylight hours which was utilised effectively, it was the work of ground crews that were our core defence in keeping the community safe on a 24 hour basis."

Multiple agencies have worked together to offer a coordinated approach to contain the fire, to protect our community.

Power has been restored to approximately 100-150 of the 200 properties that have lost power, and crews will continue to work as quickly as possible to restore power to the other affected properties.

Residents are now being allowed access to their properties. Where power is yet to be restored, residents are encouraged to used torches.

SAPOL has confirmed the fire was caused by a landholder lawfully burning on private property.

CFS, MFS and SAPOL Fire Cause Investigators will tomorrow attend the origin of the fire to begin their formal investigation.

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Media information
For media enquiries call the CFS Media Line on 08 8115 3531.

Government of South Australia