WA bushfires: Waroona residents flee to Pinjarra evacuation centre

More than 100 Waroona residents have gathered at the Pinjarra emergency evacuation centre after fleeing their homes to protect themselves and their pets when lightning started a bushfire on Wednesday morning.

Meanwhile, the Mandurah Volunteer Marine Rescue group has been required to pick up holiday-makers left stranded at Preston Beach.

While media are unable to enter the Pinjarra evacuation centre many concerned residents are outside trying to call friends to make sure they are safe.

Emotions were high as two women tried to find someone who could rescue their ferrets and cats.

The residents are unable to go back into Waroona with police road blocks on the corner of South West Highway and Greenlands Road.

On the pavement Melissa Young sat clutching her small puppy, Maisie - although it has been advised that pets would not be allowed at evacuation points.

Ms Young said she escaped the blaze last night when the Department of Fire and and Emergency services issued an alert to leave.

Ms Young said her property looked to be surrounded by flames when she left but had since heard it was still standing.

"I couldn't believe how fast the flames came," she said.

"I thought it was raining but it was the ash dropping on the roof.

"When you get the alert your heart just starts going and all you want to do is get out and then you see the emergency crews going in.

"Every inch of you just wants to get out."

After sleeping at the evacuation centre on Camp Road, Ms Young said the staff were lovely and providing an excellent service.

Emergency services officer Ryan Hamblion said 120 Waroona residents had registered overnight and this morning.

"We are offering catering and support, if numbers reach capacity we will open another centre in Pinjarra," he said.

Mr Hamblion said DFES would be providing physical information about the fire on Thursday at 2pm at the Pinjarra evacuation centre.

story from The Mandurah Mail