General News
9 January, 2026
Suspicious fires investigated
Central Goldfields Crime Investigation Unit (CIU) detectives are appealing for public assistance following a series of suspicious fires in the Goldfields area over the past couple of months.
Emergency services were called to two suspicious fires in McIntyre and Cochranes Creek on Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 20, 2025.
Detectives believe two more fires were deliberately lit near O’Briens Dam and Rheola — Bealiba roads, Wehla at around 7.30 pm on Sunday, January 4.
Fortunately, all fires were quickly extinguished with no damage or injuries reported.
Investigators believe the fires were deliberately lit and may be connected to a series of suspicious fires during December 2024 and January 2025 in the same area.
Goldfields CIU Acting Detective Sergeant Jaime Coles wants to speak to anyone that may have information, CCTV/dashcam footage or those that may have seen any suspicious activity in the area at the time.
“We are treating the fires as suspicious ... there was a large number of fires, we are calling them the 2024-25 series, and out of those fires, we have identified some similarities,” she said.
“This includes their location, the type of vegetation burnt, the timing, and similar destruction.”
Police are keen to speak to anyone who witnesses concerning behaviour in relation to fires, or anyone who has been told about this behaviour taking place. This information could prove crucial in preventing a bushfire.
Police will investigate and take action to catch those responsible when a fire is deemed suspicious, whether it was a deliberate or reckless action.
“Stay away from the area, only use the routes that are paved, unless you have a vehicle that can travel through there. If you’re local in the area and you’ve identified people that you don’t recognise, or vehicles that are strange to the location, contact Crime Stoppers,” Act Det Sgt Coles said.
“Expect a heavy police presence around those areas, police are actively door knocking to let residents know fires are coming. We have also got marked police cars doing patrolling.”
Last bushfire season, there were 59 offences statewide relating to causing a bushfire, with 23 of these due to reckless behaviour.
Anyone found guilty of recklessly or intentionally causing a bushfire faces a penalty of up to 15 years imprisonment.
Those who witnesses suspicious or reckless behaviour as it is occurring should call Triple Zero (000) and anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au