A new taskforce has been formed to tackle the issue of deliberately lit fires as the state’s bushfire season approaches.
The decision to establish the group comes after a spate of deliberately lit fires earlier this year, including several that kept firefighters busy for days and led to the arrest of a 13-year-old.
According to Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) Acting Regional Chief Steven Richardson, the problem is particularly acute around Launceston.
He said the taskforce would address illegal dumping, waste burning and deliberately lit blazes.
“By sharing intelligence, improving communication between our organisations and engaging with the community, we aim to mitigate risks in these targeted areas and promote fire safety,” he said.
“This coordinated approach will not only help us identify and address potential threats before they escalate but also empower our community with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves and their surroundings.”
Richardson said deliberately lit fires put the community, emergency responders and even the arsonists themselves at risk.
Over 400 fires were reported in the northern region during the 2023-24 season, with a quarter burning for over 24 hours.
In the Launceston area alone, 161 fires occurred and between 70 and 80 were deliberately lit.
The new working group includes the TFS, Tasmania Police, the Environment Protection Authority and the Launceston City Council.
Tasmania Police Northern District Commander Marco Ghedini says the key focus is improved information sharing.
“We understand the frustration felt by the Launceston community during the series of fires in the greater Launceston area earlier this year,” he said.
“We will continue to work proactively with our partners at Tasmania Fire Service and actively investigate any reports of suspicious fire activity, but we also need the community’s help.”
