Fire rages through Dunoon as strong winds hamper efforts

A devastating fire tore through Site 5 in Dunoon on Friday morning, placing hundreds of residents at risk and prompting a large-scale emergency response as strong southeasterly winds continued to fuel the blaze.

According to the City's Fire and Rescue Service spokesman, Jermaine Carelse, emergency services were alerted at around 10.25am after receiving numerous calls reporting informal structures alight. 

The first arriving officer immediately called for additional resources as the fire spread rapidly, he said,

At least 12 fire engines and water tankers remain on scene, with operations coordinated by an Incident Management Team (IMT) Type 4.

“Firefighting helicopters have been deployed to conduct aerial waterbombing, but strong winds and a heavy fuel load continue to hamper containment efforts,” he said.

The situation escalated when firefighters were assaulted by members of the community, resulting in public order policing units being deployed to protect emergency personnel. 

“One firefighter has been taken to a nearby medical facility for treatment after suffering heat exhaustion,” said Mr Carelse.

As the fire continues to rage, an urgent humanitarian appeal has been issued from Little Brinks Safe House, where women and children are under immediate threat from the advancing fire, smoke, and ash.

While Little Brinks Safe House itself has not been damaged, concern is mounting for women and children linked to the safe house who live in the surrounding area. 

“These families are being directly affected by thick smoke and the nearby fire, with two mothers reported to be ill and unable to safely remain in the hazardous air conditions,” said  Shan Hoffman, an ambassador who is coordinating emergency assistance.

“The priority right now is to get these mothers and children out of danger and into safe accommodation for the night. We work closely with these moms to keep their families together, but right now they need urgent help,” she said.

An immediate call has been made for financial donations to secure temporary accommodation away from the fire and hazardous air conditions.

 If you can help with any donations or temporary shelter for mothers and babies, contact Ms Hoffman at 079 788 0944.

Zukiswa Kobe, a community activist in Dunoon, grew emotional as she spoke to TableTalk

“My home with all my belongings has burned to the ground, and now I am watching my friends and family watch their homes go up in flames. Please call me at another time.”

Emergency services have confirmed that the scene remains active and fluid, with further updates to follow as information is verified.

This is a developing story.