Media release – Tasmania Police, Wednesday 20 September 2023 – 3:40 am
Emergency Road Closures Due to Bushfires
Bushfire at Coles Bay Road, Friendly Beaches:
Coles Bay Road will remain closed into tomorrow (Wednesday 20 September) and will not be open to the general public until a full safety inspection has been completed and hazards are removed. This work needs to be undertaken to ensure the road is safe for community use. Motorists are advised to expect interruptions and plan accordingly.
Bushfire at Esk Highway/Tasman Highway, Falmouth:
The Esk Highway from the bottom of St Marys Pass to the Tasman Highway at Upper Scamander Road will be closed due to a fire until at least 10am (20/09/2023) – motorists are advised to detour via Top Marshes Road if necessary.
Members of the public should view up to date information at www.alert.tas.gov.au.
Media release – Tasmania Police, Tuesday 20 September 2023
Tasmania Fire Service crews are actively responding to several bushfires on Tasmania’s east coast this afternoon
“Tasmania Fire Service crews are actively responding to several bushfires on the East Coast this afternoon, including one at Coles Bay which remains under Emergency Warning,” said TFS Acting Regional Chief, Greg Butters.
“Coles Bay township is currently not under immediate threat, however, the Tasmania Fire Service advises that awareness and vigilance should be maintained.
“Ground crews, supported by three aircraft, are actively working to bring the bushfire at Coles Bay Road under control.
“Due to the location of the fire, police have closed Coles Bay Road to all traffic.
“Anyone in the Friendly Beaches area who has not evacuated should leave immediately to a nearby safer place.
“Safer Places are designated at the two boat ramps in Coles Bay and the Freycinet Golf Course.
“There is an Evacuation Centre set-up at the Swansea Town Hall for people who cannot return home via Coles Bay Road.
“The Bureau of Meteorology has advised that strong winds are expected to peak later this evening, before reducing in the early hours of tomorrow morning.
“It is imperative people keep up-to-date with information to keep safe.”
A Watch and Act (avoid the area) is current for Swanwick and Coles Bay and an Advice message (monitor conditions) is current for Tasman Highway, Apslawn, Bicheno.
People are encouraged to stay informed and monitor conditions locally by visiting tasalert.com and listening to ABC Radio.
