7th March 2003
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| This image shows the gradual progression of the bushfires from their beginning on the 8th of January to the 21st of January, when the fires no longer posed a direct threat towards the ACT. |
The treacherous last months have finally come to a close as
fires were officially announced under control today. This leaves residents
across the South East of Australia, particularly the ACT, in exultation and exhaustion.
Extensive scientific research confirmed that the Canberra bushfires on the 18th
were the result of a severe fire storm. The climatic conditions present over
the previous month had preceded the fires, creating the ideal breeding ground
for the bushfires as all elements needed for a bushfire to begin was fulfilled.
The strong winds stimulated the oxygen source, the drying temperatures
generated the heat source and native vegetation and grasslands found throughout
Australia created the perfected fuel source. A lightning strike triggered the
bushfires, which then developed into a severe firestorm. The fires had an
astronomical impact towards the overall composition of society. Over 500
residential homes were destroyed, presenting the issue of homelessness for many
families and individuals. 4 people were killed and 490 were with injury,
creating emotional trauma and loss within the community. The insurable loss and damage bill for the
fires is proposed to be more than $450million, making them the second most
expensive fires in Australian history .
One of the most significant industrial
infrastructures damaged in the blaze was the Mount Stromlo Observatory. Much of
the building and its equipment was consumed, causing destruction of great
scientific and historical loss, heavily impacting the Astronomy and
Astrophysics industry in Australia. The ruining of suburban and rural property
left many in financial crisis, unable to obtain new land or rebuild their
homes. The environment was left devastated by the fires, with an estimation of
1/10th of Australian land diminished and over 70% of the ACT
destroyed. The vegetation and water quality of the Cotter River Catchment was
impacted, further reducing Canberra’s water reserves and the issue of ongoing
drought within the region. Hundreds of domestic and native animals within the territory
perished in the bushfire conditions, their ecosystems disrupted through
destruction of natural habitat and food source. The Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve
suffered the loss of many rare species, including 4 Regent honeyeaters,
further endangering this protected species. Canberra’s environment and society
will take a substantial amount of time and attention to regenerate and return
to its previous state.
-Olivia Brown, ABC Reporter
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| The haunted remnants of the momentous Stromlo Observatory after the fires exorbitant impact. |
-Olivia Brown, ABC Reporter
