A fire in Argyle was first reported on Thursday 16 January 2025 at 1:12pm. Since this time, the fire spread and has impacted parts of Argyle, Paynedale and the Donnybrook townsite.
Emergency services personnel have been actively on scene fighting and monitoring the fire.
For the latest and current information, please refer to the following resources – you can also call 13 DFES (13 3337) and listen to ABC Local Radio, 6PR or news bulletins.
Impacted Roads & South West Highway (open)
The South West Highway has been reopened since the incident occurred. Main Roads WA has confirmed traffic can resume using this route, however all road users must exercise caution and drive to the conditions. Please be safe when travelling near the area – watch for emergency personnel and follow their direction. Thank you for your patience and cooperation.
L. Ammon Road, Knights Road, Lee Road, Gavin's Road, and parts of Morgan Road have been impacted. Some of these roads are closed to the public, and traffic management is in place. The Shire will assess these roads on Friday 17 January.
Road information may also be available from Main Roads WA (MRWA) on the website linked below, or by calling MRWA on 138 138.
View the Main Roads Travel Map
When the South West Highway was reopened, Shire President Vivienne MacCarthy shared the following message:
“It’s great to see the highway has reopened to traffic, demonstrating the coordinated local and state agency response to the fire.”
“I would also like to acknowledge the support and camaraderie shown by our community, which never ceases to amaze me. This incident follows yet another fire in Lowden, which happened on Tuesday. The Shire and its volunteer brigades have responded and managed both of these emergencies, and I would like to especially thank Incident Controller Max Walker for his tireless efforts throughout.”
“We are also appreciative of the efforts of our residents, community organisations and local businesses, who go above and beyond to assist one another in times of need. Whether it’s neighbours helping one another by transporting animals and livestock, providing refuge to evacuees, or a local pub working to prepare roughly 70 meals, we are all grateful and appreciate every form of support.”
The above information was last updated on Friday 17 January 2025 at 1:15pm.
Power & Electricity
Some properties in and around the affected area may lose power during this time. The Shire is working with Western Power to restore power to affected residents.
Accidents and emergencies related to electricity and power must be reported immediately. If you see a fallen powerline or pole, always assume that it is live. Do not go near it, touch it or anything that is in contact with it. If this occurs:
- In a life threatening emergency, call emergency services on 000.
- Phone Western Power on 13 13 51 to report a fallen powerline and to make the area safe.
- Do not go near an injured person if it means going near powerlines.
- Stand back and urge other bystanders to keep at least 8m away.
- Do not approach the area until the proper authorities have declared the area safe.
In addition to the fallen powerlines, there may also be damage to support structures and equipment. It may not be easy to see damage to structures, so always keep a safe distance.
More information is available via the Western Power website:
Reporting Incidents & Emergencies
Evacuation Information
The latest advice will be available through the Department of Fire & Emergency Services (DFES). If you don’t feel safe and/or wish to leave, ensure that you do so safely and take essential items with you (medications, ID, etc.).
Evacuation Centre:
The Department of Communities previously opened an Evacuation Centre at the Capel Community Centre, however it has since been closed. Information on places you can evacuate to will be updated and available via EmergencyWA – see the website linked below or download the app (Apple/Google app stores).
Visit the EmergencyWA website
The above information was last updated on Friday 17 January 2025 at 11:00am.
Pets & Animals (livestock)
Owners or carers of livestock, pets and companion animals should activate their own animal welfare plan. Further information is available via the Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development (DPIRD) website linked below:
Animal welfare during bushfires