Two bushfires trigger evacuation alerts in SE Queensland

Two major bushfires burning within 50 kilometres south-west of Brisbane have prompted Queensland authorities to issue emergency Watch and Act declarations across multiple suburbs in the Scenic Rim region, affecting hundreds of residents who are now preparing potential evacuations.

The first fire, located near Eugenie Court at Mundoolun, Birnam and Veresdale Scrub close to Beaudesert, is actively moving toward King Coolum Reserve and is currently being engaged by helicopter water-bombing operations. The second fire at Flagstone, near Jimboomba, is burning more slowly but has been identified as mobile, spreading in the vicinity of Trailblazer Drive, Saunders Drive and Highgate Drive.

Watch and Act declarations—the highest level of emergency alert short of immediate evacuation orders—were issued around midday for Flagstone and approximately 2:30pm for the Beaudesert area. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services maintained that no properties were in immediate danger at the time of declaration, but warned that fire conditions could rapidly escalate.

"Decide where you and the people you live with will go," QFES instructed residents. "Plan how you will get there. Tell others where you will go." The agency advised residents to prepare bags containing five days of clothing, important documents, medications, cash, keys and pet supplies, along with mobile phone chargers.

Residents uncomfortable remaining at home were directed to refuge facilities now operating in the region. Beaudesert Baptist Church and Beaudesert Showgrounds have opened as community shelters, with the showgrounds specifically equipped for residents with animals.

A community information meeting was scheduled for Wednesday evening at Flagstone Community College Hall, where officials planned to brief residents on updated fire conditions, preparation strategies and expected developments over coming days.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen urged the community to approach the situation with measured preparation rather than alarm. "This is the time to be planning, not posting photos on social media," the mayor said, emphasising the importance of thinking through family evacuation and refuge plans before a fast-moving fire scenario.

Firefighting operations, supported by aircraft, have been ongoing since the fires erupted over the weekend, with ground crews conducting door-to-door notifications in affected areas. Both fires remain active, with authorities maintaining continuous monitoring and updates through the Scenic Rim Disaster Dashboard and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services incident tracking.

Weather conditions and fire behaviour over the coming hours will determine spread and intensity across both locations. Residents have been advised to monitor official channels for updated warnings and guidance.