LATEST @ 12.30 PM | Multiple fire crews remain on scene in the Gold Coast hinterland this afternoon, battling a vegetation fire currently burning across 60 hectares of council land.
A Queensland Fire and Emergency Service spokesperson confirmed to myGC that Defence contractors were conducting a hazard reduction burn near Lower Beechmont, when a tree fell across a track this morning.
It resulted in the burn breaching containment lines, with QFES and the Rural Fire Brigade called in to help contain it.
A smoke alert has been issued for Lower Beechmont, Mount Nathan, Clagiraba and Advancetown, with authorities warning the reduced air quality may cause health impacts for some people.
The smoke may also reduce visibility and affect driving conditions.
At this stage, there is no direct threat to any properties.
Residents in the area are being urged to stay indoors and to close all windows and doors.
EARLIER @ 9.00 AM | Authorities have issued a smoke warning for parts of the Gold Coast Hinterland after a planned hazard reduction got out of hand this morning.
According to councillor Glenn Tozer, the burn was being undertaken by the Department of Defence on Federal land near Lower Beechmont.
Five crews are currently on scene working to douse the flames, with another four en route to help battle the blaze.
“The situation is worsening and residents in the Freemans Road (north) and Hellfire Pass area should activate their bushfire plans,” Councillor Tozer wrote.
The smoke alert takes in Lower Beechmont and surrounding areas.
Residents in the area are being urged to stay indoors and to close all windows and doors.
