Homes destroyed as bushfires continue to burn across the state

Bushfires have destroyed properties at Dolphin Sands on the East Coast as blazes continue to burn across southern Tasmania.

Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) Southern Regional Chief Simon Pilkington said it would spend Friday focusing its efforts on protecting the communities of Dolphin Sands and Glenlusk.

The TFS indicated the other fires at Abels Bay, Colebrook, Levendale and Rhyndaston would be reassessed this morning.

“The conditions were unpredictable, and unfortunately for much of the day we were not able to safely deploy aircraft to assist firefighting efforts,” Mr Pilkington said.

“A slight improvement in the weather late yesterday afternoon meant we were able to downgrade many of the alerts and warnings.

“We are aware of property losses in Dolphin Sands, and will be completing rapid impact assessments this morning to confirm the extent of this, when safe to do so.”

Mr Pilkington said Friday’s weather was expected to be more favourable for firefighting and was confident the TFS would make good progress.

“In addition to crews on the ground, we will look to have aerial resources deployed to Dolphin Sands.

“An evacuation centre remains open at the Swansea Town Hall for residents affected by the Dolphin Sands fire.

“A number of community members also sought safety at Bagots Point overnight, and we commend them on taking this action to keep themselves safe.

“Our priority is community safety, and we are urging people to please stay informed and up to date as the situation continues.”