At this stage, there are no confirmed reports of deaths or major injuries resulting from the fires throughout the State.

Tasmania Police has been responding to the fire situation facing southern Tasmania overnight. More than 100 police officers have been assisting the communities in areas affected by the fires.

The Inala Rd, Forcett, fire has affected the following communities: Dunalley, Copping,  Boomer Bay, Forcett, Primrose Sands, Connelly’s Marsh, Susans Bay, Eaglehawk Neck, and Taranna.

Around 30% of the buildings in Dunalley have been destroyed including the Police Station, Bakery and the School. Structure loss in Connelly’s Marsh is estimated at 40%. There are reports that three houses have been lost in Copping and a number of Primrose Sands. More than 20 houses have been reported destroyed in the Murdunna area. 
It is unlikely that the Arthur Highway will be open for some time until fallen wires, trees and debris are cleared. This will not commence until after the fire stops burning across the highway. Police thank people for their patience and understanding at this time. It’s important that people affected by the fire understand that they may not be able to access their properties until the areas are safe.

Up to 2000 people have taken refuge at Nubeena and another 700 at the Port Arthur Historic site. Arrangements have been made to ferry meals to these people this morning.

People have also been ferried out of the Tasman Peninsula to emergency accommodation in Hobart. Police thank private companies who provided commercial ferries to assist in transporting people.

Police and the Tasmania Fire Service continue to monitor blazes at Lake Repulse and the Bicheno/Coles Bay area.

No injuries or deaths have been confirmed at this stage although Joint Agency assessment teams will be deployed to affected areas on Saturday morning to make a thorough assessment.

Please monitor the TFS website www.fire.tas.gov.au for information on the fire situation.

Tasmania Police Media & Communications

(03) 6230 2296