The Queensland Fire and Emergency Service (QFES) issued an emergency warning at 3:30pm advising residents that “a large, fast-moving fire is burning near White Gums Street and Wintzloff Road”.
The fire is burning to the east of the town and “is expected to impact Hardwood Road, Landsborough within the next hour”. The fresh warning comes after an initial emergency alert was issued for the town last night.
“Your life could be at risk. It will soon be too dangerous to drive,” QFES said.
The fire is burning just a few kilometres from Australia Zoo, the wildlife and conservation facility founded by Steve Irwin’s father.
A bushfire warning remains in place for residents living in Tara, where at least 35 homes have been lost.
Properties around Chinchilla Tara Road, Millers Road, Bakers Road, McCasker Road and Upper Humbug Road are the latest to be warned to prepare to evacuate.
A Watch and Act alert was also issued at 2pm for residents in the nearby towns of Condamine, Barramornie, Kogan and Montrose North.
QFES said “a large, dangerous fire is burning near Ravens Road”.
“Conditions could get worse quickly,” the service said.
“Firefighters are working to contain the fire but you should not expect a firefighter at your door.”
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QFES Deputy Commissioner Joanne Greenfield told Weekend Today crews were focusing their efforts on Tara, Lowmead and Beerwah.
“The conditions will ease slightly today and then we expect them to escalate again on Tuesday. So we will be working hard on containment lines,” she said.
Residents living in Landsborough, about 323km from Tara, were told to “evacuate immediately” last night due to a fast-moving fire near the town.
“Police and fire crews are door-knocking, however please do not wait for a police officer or firefighter to be at your door,” the warning said.
The emergency declaration was revoked at 10.20pm.
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Watch and Act alerts were issued overnight for Carnarvon Gorge and surrounding areas in the central highlands, The Gums (near Tara), in addition to Condamine, Kogan, Montrose North, Mount Tom and Colosseum.
Firefighters are preparing for increased fire weather on Tuesday with crews strengthening containment lines.
Deputy Commissioner Greenfield warned all residents living in a high-risk area, to remain vigilant.
“We are putting information out into the community. People who have been evacuated, don’t return until you get get the all clear,” she said.
