Volunteer firefighters save church’s crop from scrub fire

Katanning Baptist Church have thanked volunteer firefighters for saving their canola crop and farmland from a fire that forced the closure of Warren Road.

Almost 50 volunteers were involved in fighting the blaze that was reported about 2.15pm near Withers Road on Sunday.

The fire was contained within an hour, but Warren Road was closed overnight between Withers Road and Butterworth Road as crews mopped up. In total, 10.5 hectares were burnt by the fire, which is believed to have been caused by machinery.

Katanning Baptist Church mission team leader Lynn Squibb said she wanted to thank the volunteer firefighters for their swift efforts in saving their crop, which is situated about 8.5km from the centre of town.

Profits from the church’s crop go towards their local and global missions.

“A heartfelt thank you to the many volunteers who helped out with the fire,” Ms Squibb said.

“The fire started on a neighbouring property to our church block and then got across the road and into a shoulder of bush.

“Thankfully there was a wind change and the firefighters were able to get it under control.

“There was definitely fear out there after what happened in February...it was a worry.

“We are so blessed to be living in such a wonderful community.”