A 19-year-old apprentice from Kalamunda has been released on bail after a firecracker he allegedly set off ignited a dangerous bushfire in the Perth Hills on New Year's Day, forcing residents to flee their homes.
Court Hears Details of Alleged Ignition
Luke Joseph Grguric appeared in the Perth Magistrates Court on Thursday, just hours after the fast-moving blaze threatened properties and left approximately 2000 homes and businesses without power. The court was told the second-year boilermaker left his Kalamunda home at midnight on New Year's Day and ventured into nearby bushland with a firecracker.
Police prosecutors alleged Mr Grguric threw the cracker into dry grass, where it quickly sparked a fire. According to Police Prosecutor Sergeant Rob Clements, the teenager immediately called triple zero and tried to stamp out the flames before running to the nearest house to raise the alarm.
Major Emergency Response Unfolds
The fire, which began near Temby Avenue, escalated rapidly into a significant emergency. Around 150 firefighters were deployed to battle the blaze, with crews forced to use a specialised water tank helicopter for aerial attacks. At the peak of the danger, authorities issued a bushfire emergency warning, ordering residents in the path of the fire to leave immediately.
Power was cut to thousands due to burnt and fallen power lines, with electricity not fully restored until 10am on Thursday. The fire alert level remained at a "watch and act" status into the afternoon.
Bail Granted With Strict Conditions
Mr Grguric was arrested and spent a night in custody before his bail application. His lawyer, Caitlin Searle, argued for his release, emphasising his good character and immediate efforts to alert authorities and combat the fire. She noted he had no prior court appearances.
Police opposed bail, describing the incident as a significant event where bail was inappropriate. However, Magistrate Dianne Scaddan acknowledged the fire's community impact but ruled Mr Grguric could be released under strict conditions to minimise any risk of reoffending.
He was granted bail with a $20,000 surety and must live at his parents' Kalamunda address, abide by a night-time curfew, and report to Forrestfield police three times weekly. The case was adjourned for four weeks.
