Published on Tuesday, 17 February 2026 at 8:58:09 AM
(Firefighters fighting the Fitzgerald River National Park bushfire, January 2026. Image supplied by DBCA)
As things are slowly returning to some form of normality for most — though not all — I would like to take this opportunity to send a message of sincere thanks.
Between 1 December 2025 and 3 February 2026, our communities were required to constantly battle fires created by Mother Nature herself. This was made even more difficult with the passing of a great community man and Ravensthorpe Shire Deputy President, Cr Mark Mudie, on that very first day.
Ravensthorpe’s Chief Bush Fire Control Officer, Deputies, Fire Control Officers, brigades and volunteers went above and beyond, working together during each fire event. The shared knowledge, teamwork and united vision demonstrated by all is a true credit to them, and a privilege for the rest of us to witness. We are in very good hands.
I would also like to acknowledge the many locals who volunteered their time, staff and equipment — including fire units, water, tractors, speed tillers and fuel — to help in the ongoing response.
Our Shire, Council and staff assisted wherever required, working closely with agencies and providing essential support, including manpower, machinery, water resources and signage.
WA Police and St John Ambulance faced a particularly challenging time during the first fire. As a community, we are deeply grateful for the professionalism, care and support they provided — whether through practical assistance, a conversation, or simply a hug. All of it mattered.
To our SES crew, thank you for everything you do. You wear many hats, from delivering meals to filling water bombers at the airport. Your service does not go unnoticed.
(Firefighters attending a morning briefing on the oval at Ravensthorpe. Image supplied by DBCA)
During the Fitzgerald River National Park fire, the Shire worked closely with DBCA, DFES and the State Pre-Formed Incident Management Team, which included firefighters from across the state. This was a complex incident with extreme conditions and at times, there was direct pressure on the Ravensthorpe townsite. The Ravensthorpe Recreation and Entertainment Centre became a central hub supporting a large contingent of personnel.
Parks and Wildlife staff attended the recent Hopetoun Local Markets to answer community questions about how the fire was managed and it was fantastic to see them engaging directly with so many locals.
(Pictured: Crs Leighton, Gibson and Auburn with DBCA Incident Controller Richie Boykett at the Hopetoun markets).
Main Roads WA managed the closure of the South Coast Highway to protect public safety and support emergency operations, while the Salvation Army and local businesses provided meals and catering for volunteers throughout the prolonged response.
A special mention goes to our neighbouring local governments — Jerramungup, Lake Grace and Esperance — for their ongoing support and on-ground assistance.
To our wider community, thank you for your patience, care and support. This response has shown the strength of our community and emergency services working together, and all personnel and volunteers should feel immensely proud.
As we move forward, please continue to check in on one another and reach out for support if needed.
From a very proud Ravensthorpe Shire resident, I simply say: thank you.
Cr Rachel Gibson
President
Shire of Ravensthorpe
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