In early 2014 the Southern Finders Ranges in South Australia suffered from a devastating bush fire. The fire (known as the Bangor fire) raged for a month — from January 14 to February 14.
The fire burnt 35,000 hectares of thick scrub and farmland. 5 Arial bombers and more than 200 firefighters actively worked to protect the townships of Wirrabarra, Kaura, Napperby, Nelshaby, Stone hut and beetaloo Valley.
Many were asked to evacuate their homes. 6 houses, several sheds, farming fencing, livestock, native animals and most of the Wirrabarra forest was destroyed.
Temperatures were well into the 40's and winds reached 30-40 km/h gusting to 50. Elderly Residents have said its the biggest bush fire in the area they've ever seen. One resident said he observed whirly winds with flames, maybe 40 to 50 metres high.
Finally Heavy rain put out the bushfire. 70-100 millimetres of rain fell over much of the fire ground.
Then the Ranges suffered from soil erosion. Topsoil was washed away due to lack of vegetation. Flooding occurred in some areas.
Debris and ash found its way to farming water making it unpalatable to livestock.
The communities came together to clean up and support each other, Veterinarians and wildlife experts from all over Australia came to heal and euthanize injured animals. Individuals, clubs and businesses offered shelter to those that had to evacuate from their homes, Fire fighters and emergency services volunteered their time. It's certainly is amazing how people can come together and support each other in times of need.
Today 4 years later the Flinders Ranges is looking beautiful again. The regrowth is looking good and wildlife is flourishing. We still suffer from drought and scorching weather, but bushfires have been manageable. Unfortunately some of the creeks and reservoirs have dried out. Hopefully winter will bring us enough rain to fill them again.
The hills after the fire
Napperby reserve a couple of weeks after the flooding
Flinders Ranges today
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