For the third year running, an arsonist has lit a fire on the hillside between Narragon Beach and Bingil Bay, right at the edge of Bicton Hill in the Clump Mountain National Park.
Each year, between September and November, the goal seems to be the same: get fire to run up into the national park. These are not planned or approved burns. The area is not designated for fires or controlled burning, and both Traditional Owners and Parks have confirmed they do not support it.
The first year it happened, in 2023, the fire was lit three separate times and managed to burn a ways up the hill before it was stopped near the walking track. Last year, it was set in a different spot, burning up another ridge. This year, another fire was spotted and the pattern is continuing.
These fires are being lit very early in the morning when few people are around. That makes it hard to catch who’s doing it. But local police are aware of the situation, and the area is being actively monitored.
If you’re driving through, walking nearby, or live in the area, please keep an eye out. If you see someone lighting fires, call the police straight away.