Bushfire threatens homes in Perth`s east

A bushfire emergency warning has been issued for residents of a new subdivision near
John Forrest National Park in the Perth Hills.
The residents of the Hidden Valley subdivision north of Parkerville have been warned
their homes could be in the path of the fire and their "best option for survival"
was to leave.
"Relocating at the last minute can be life-threatening," a warning from the
Department of Environment and Conservation said at 4pm (WST) on Wednesday.
A DEC spokeswoman said the fire was "believed to be suspicious, deliberately lit".
A relocation point for evacuees has been set up at the Swan Park Leisure Centre in
nearby Midvale.
The DEC warning said a bushfire watch and act message was in place for residents of
Hovea and Parkerville, Pechey Road and Taaffe Road between Swan View and Jane Brook
and near Red Hill on Toodyay Road.
Those residents were warned to stay alert for signs of fire and changes in
conditions, close all doors and windows and turn off evaporative air conditioners.
The national park has been closed as a precaution.
The DEC at 4pm said the bushfire was moving at a moderate speed in steep terrain in
a northeasterly direction pushed by southwesterly winds.
The fire had burnt through about 350ha, it said.
Motorists were warned to be aware of fire trucks travelling along Toodyay Road and
the potential for reduced visibility due to smoke.
Firefighters from DEC, the Fire and Emergency Services Authority, police and local
volunteer brigades were battling the blaze with 22 trucks, five earthmoving machines
and five aerial water bombers involved.