The tight-knit community of Ravensthorpe in Western Australia is reeling after the death of a respected local farmer and civic leader in a devastating bushfire. Mark Mudie, the Deputy President of the Shire of Ravensthorpe, lost his life on Monday afternoon while attempting to save his family farm in West River.
A Desperate Fight to Save the Farm
The tragedy unfolded on the afternoon of Monday, 2 December 2025. Mr Mudie was operating a front-end loader in a desperate bid to establish a firebreak on his property when the machinery was suddenly engulfed by flames. Despite the efforts of emergency services, the 60-year-old could not be saved and died at the scene.
The fire, which began around 2:20pm, is understood to have started on Mr Mudie's own land. It has since burned through approximately 4,199 hectares and is moving slowly in a north-easterly direction. While the blaze is currently contained, it remains uncontrolled, with firefighters working to strengthen containment lines.
A Pillar of the Community Lost
Mark Mudie was far more than a farmer; he was a cornerstone of the Ravensthorpe community. He worked the 7,000-hectare family farm alongside his wife, Elaine, and son, Nathan. In a 2019 interview, he expressed his joy at working with his son, calling it a "dream come true."
His commitment to the region extended well beyond the farm gate. Elected as Deputy Shire President in October 2023, his term was set to run until 2027. He served on numerous council committees, including the bushfire advisory committee, and was an active member of several regional groups like the Great Southern Road group and WALGA Great Southern Country Zone committee.
An Outpouring of Grief and Condolences
The news has sent shockwaves through the community and prompted heartfelt responses from state leaders. Premier Roger Cook described the death as a "desperately sad situation," acknowledging the profound impact on the close-knit town. Emergency Services Minister Paul Papalia called it a "terrible tragedy" that starkly highlights the dangers of bushfire season.
Roe MP Peter Rundle extended his sympathies, noting that the loss compounds recent hardships for Ravensthorpe, including the closure of local nickel and lithium mines. "It's a tough time for that community," Mr Rundle said.
The Shire of Ravensthorpe released a statement saying it was "devastated" and that its thoughts were with Mr Mudie's family and friends, as well as the emergency crews still battling the blaze. WA Police are investigating the circumstances of the death and will prepare a report for the Coroner. The fire's cause is under investigation but is not being treated as suspicious.
Authorities have issued a Bushfire Watch and Act alert for parts of West River and West Fitzgerald, bounded by the South Coast Highway, Lake Road, Mallee Road, Fitzgerald Road, and Koornong Road. The community is now left to mourn a man who dedicated his life to his family, his farm, and his region.
