A bushfire threatening lives and homes in Woodvale, a suburb of Perth, has transitioned from a dire leave-now warning to a less urgent watch-and-act advisory, following extensive firefighting efforts.
On March 23, 2025, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) issued a leave-now emergency broadcast at 1:37 PM, signaling residents in Yellagonga Regional Park to evacuate the area immediately. This warning came as the fire posed an imminent threat, closing off access to the park, which is nestled between Ocean Reef Road and Wanneroo Road.
Just over an hour later, at 2:45 PM, DFES updated the warning as they determined that while the fire was still burning, it had become stationary, prompting the change to a watch-and-act status. The newly issued alert advised, “A Bushfire Watch and Act is in place for people in Yellagonga Regional Park in an area bounded by Ocean Reef Road, Trappers Drive, Castlegate Way, the western edge of Yellagonga Regional Park, Whitfords Avenue and Wanneroo Road in parts of Woodvale in the Cities of Wanneroo and Joondalup.” While the immediate panic subsided, officials stated, “There is still a possible threat to lives and homes as a fire is burning in the area and conditions are changing.”
Fire crews, numbering over 50, have been stationed on-site, battling the blaze that has already consumed approximately 25 hectares of bushland since it ignited just before 1 AM on Sunday morning. A combination of ground forces and water bombing aircraft began engaging the fire as early as 7 AM, employing various tactics to curb the flames effectively.
As part of their strategy, aerial support utilized multiple Helitak bombers that joined the firefighting effort after 9:30 AM, making low passes over the fire zone to target potential areas of ember attack. These helicopters were able to refill quickly from nearby Lake Joondalup, releasing thousands of liters of fire retardant to help mitigate the blaze.
However, in the midst of the firefight, Woodvale Drive was closed, and residents were cautioned to remain vigilant and prepared as smoke filled the area. Residents were reminded to keep doors and windows closed, preparing for any sudden shifts in conditions. Additionally, they were urged to evaluate their bushfire plans in accordance with the guidelines provided by DFES.
The DFES provided a list of recommendations for residents: remain alert, ensure emergency kits are handy, and consumers were encouraged to implement their bushfire plans immediately if evacuation becomes necessary. They reported that motorist should exercise caution due to smoke hazards in the area and be aware of native animals, such as kangaroos, fleeing the bushland into suburban areas.
Despite the downward adjustment of the alert, the situation remains precarious, and reports have highlighted that Duffy House, a historic building over a century old and a vital link to the area's pastoral past, stands within danger zones. Furthermore, the wildlife inhabiting the protected sanctuary has also been put at risk.
While firefighting efforts have stabilized the situation for now, it is a reminder of the volatility of bushfire conditions in the region, especially as the warmer months approach. In an area frequented by cyclists and walkers, Yellagonga Regional Park is a popular natural retreat that is now on high alert. As firefighters work diligently to contain the fire, residents are urged to stay updated via local news or by calling Main Roads WA at 138 138 for further information.
The message from local authorities remains clear: preparedness and vigilance are essential as conditions could change rapidly. This fire, which has impacted a significant area and threatens properties and lives, underscores the importance of maintaining a proactive stance in fire-prone areas.
