DISASTROUS FIRES

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 83, Issue 45, 23 February 1939, Page 3

DISASTROUS FIRES

MARLBOROUGH COUNTRYSIDE PROVINCE TINDER-DRY BLENHEIM, Feb. 21. Between 2000 and 3000 acres of hill country with some flat land also involved were swept by a disastrous grass fire which broke out near the southern entrance to Dashwood Pass near Seddon at 9.30 o’clock this morning. By 1.30 p.m. the blaze was under control after it had been fought for four hours by approximately 150 men. It was only through the strenuous efforts of the fire-fighters that the homestead of Mr. M. H. Costello was saved from destruction. The fire started, according to settlers soon after a train had passed, and, fanned by a high north-westerly wind, spread at an alarming rate. The first property affected was that of M . L. H. Clouston. Very quickly the flames spread to Mr. Costellos property and thence to parts of the Uebrooke Estate. This was the worst of several grass fires that have occurred in recent weeks in Marlborough. Practically the whole province is tinder-dry due to the fact that only 13 points of rain have fallen this year. Extensive losses of virgin bush have occurred in the ranges on the north side of the Wairau plain, as well as in the Sounds territory. Many of these fires are still blazing and will continue to make inroads into State and privatelyowned timber stands and scenic reserves until heavy rain falls.