Dolphin Sands Bushfire: 19 Homes Destroyed, Dozens Damaged in Tasmania Inferno

Dolphin Sands Bushfire: 19 Homes Lost, Dozens Damaged in Tasmanian Inferno

A devastating bushfire has ravaged Dolphin Sands on Tasmania's east coast, confirming the loss of 19 homes and leaving dozens more significantly damaged. The Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) has reported that approximately 195 assets, ranging from residential structures to garages, outhouses, vehicles, and water tanks, have been either destroyed or impacted by the blaze.

Winds Fueling the Flames and Lingering Threat

The fierce fire tore through the dry coastal landscape, driven by strong winds. While some relief from the winds is anticipated by Tuesday, the Bureau of Meteorology warns of continued high fire danger due to dry air across the state. Emergency Services Commissioner Jeremy Smith stated that most property owners have been notified, but a few identifications are still pending as impact assessments continue.

Close Calls and Heartbreaking Losses

Dolphin Sands resident Rob Churchill recounted a terrifying experience as the 700-hectare inferno advanced within five meters of his home. "We really thought we might lose a house that night," he described, witnessing the "horrific" sight of neighbors' homes reduced to ashes. He expressed the profound and lasting impact of such destruction, noting, "These memories you never recover from."

The community is no stranger to such calamities; Dolphin Sands has experienced at least eight bushfires on its peninsula in the last 15 years. Despite the containment of the recent blaze, residents face the grim reality of widespread ash and rubble.

Community Resilience Amidst Repeat Disasters

For many of Dolphin Sands' approximately 180 residents, the constant threat of fire is an unwelcome but accepted part of life. Diane Bricknell, who moved to the "most beautiful place" in 2003, evacuated with her dogs and cherished photos, having been told to "pack and leave" as the fire approached within a kilometer. Although her house miraculously survived, it was scorched on both sides, her shed destroyed, and her caravan's underside burnt. She acknowledges the "fierce" nature of such events and the potential need to relocate, facing a significant devaluation of her property.

Paul Haddad, who bought his shack over two decades ago, describes the area as "heaven on earth" but acknowledges its inherent fire-proneness. He has been fortunate so far but faces the constant worry. With only one access road, residents like Haddad have extreme emergency plans, including heading to the easternmost point or even entering the ocean. Despite personal precautions and inspections by the Volunteer Fire Service, insurers have not offered reduced premiums, highlighting the perceived universal risk.

Infrastructure Damage and Ongoing Recovery Efforts

TasNetworks confirmed at least 40 power poles and several transformers were destroyed or damaged, underscoring the broad impact on essential infrastructure.

Regional Fire Commander Simon Pilkington emphasized the area's high flammability, noting that Dolphin Sands is predominantly covered in coastal heath and Acacia boobialla, a fuel type with high oil content. Such vegetation, combined with wind, can drive fires under almost any conditions.

As of Sunday, fire crews were still extinguishing remaining pockets of fire, with a road east of 191 Dolphin Sands Road remaining closed for safety reasons due to significant debris and contaminants. Incident Controller Mark Klop praised the community's "incredible resilience and community spirit," urging residents to prioritize safety and await official clearance before returning.

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff extended his sympathies to those affected and commended the efforts of firefighters and State Emergency Service crews. The precise cause of the devastating fire remains under investigation, with residents advised to stay informed through official channels.