After several hours, Coles Bay Road has again reopened to all traffic following an uncontrolled bushfire.
The blaze left residents and tourists stranded, with some unable to access their homes and accommodation on the peninsula and other unable to leave.
EARLIER: Trapped Coles Bay residents who are unable to escape from the nearby bushfire are growing increasingly frustrated after missing a brief reopening of the road.
Many are upset that the Tasmania Fire Service did not provide any alerts about the roads status this morning, leaving only those already at the roadblock a chance to evacuate.
With shops closed and no power or food available, the situation is ‘becoming dire,’ as the road is expected to remain closed for some time.
The Tasmania Fire Service say ground crews are currently working to bring the bushfire under control.
“Level 2 road closures are in place, Coles Bay Road is currently only accessible for Emergency vehicles only,” the TFS said at 11am.
“Works are in progress to asses trees and powerlines to ensure roads are accessible as soon as possible.”
TFS Deputy Chief Matt Lowe said that some rain overnight had dampened fire activity.
“We had six crews overnight doing structural protection and to date we have had no reports of any structures lost or any injuries at this time,” he said.
“Our plan for today is to gain a comprehensive picture of the fire damage, however early indications suggest around 700 ha has been burnt at this stage.”
“Our key priority is to return residents to their homes & businesses once deemed safe.”
“The Coles Bay & Swanick township is not under immediate threat, however, the Tasmania Fire Service advises that awareness and vigilance should be maintained.”
“Our priority is to assess Coles Bay Road, including nearby trees that may have been damaged, and undertake any remedial works so that the road can be opened as soon as possible,” Lowe said.
Fire investigators are working to determine the cause of the fire.
