North coast fire crews return from tragic fire
Media release: 6 November 2008
Fourteen National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) north coast fire fighters have returned home after helping contain a fire, in Kumbatine National Park, west of Kempsey, that tragically cost the life of a Port Macquarie-based colleague, Bryce Laut.
NPWS North Coast Region Manager Alan Jeffery said the crews from Iluka, Grafton, Coffs Harbour and Dorrigo went to assist following a tragic accident in which Mr Laut was killed by a falling tree on Sunday evening, 26 October.
“Mr Laut died while he was fighting a fire believed to have been caused by arson,” Mr Jeffery said.
“Police are conducting inquiries and specialist investigators will examine the cause of the bushfire. A report will also be prepared for the information of the NSW Coroner’s office.
“Unfortunately, and tragically in this case, the primary cause of fires in parks is arson,” Mr Jeffery said.
“For example, the record shows that between 1995 and 2004 an average of 124 fires started each year on NPWS estate as a result of arson, suspected arson or motor vehicle-related fires. By comparison lightning caused an average 77 fires per a year,” he said.
The Police Property Crime Squad Arson Team investigates suspicious bushfires and have pledged firebugs would feel the full force of the law.
With the weather warming up, police are reminding those considering lighting bushfires of the hefty penalties in place for arson offences. Under the provisions of the Crimes Act (NSW) 1900 and Rural Fires Act (NSW) 1997, the maximum penalty for deliberately starting a fire is 14 years’ imprisonment.
During the 2007/2008 bushfire season 18 adults and 55 juveniles were charged with a total of 92 offences. The Rural Fire Service and New South Wales Fire Brigades work closely with NSW Police Force to investigate arson-related bushfires which increases the ability to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Anyone with information about the cause of the fire in the Kumbatine National Park is urged to contact Port Macquarie Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Contact: Lawrence Orel