Russell Island residents dodge bushfire’s wall of flames

Fire crews on Russell Island are confident they have a large grassfire under control despite several spot fires and flare-ups.

The blaze broke out about midday yesterday and threatened about 60 homes, coming within 20 metres of some properties, forcing residents to leave.

One local man who joined firefighting efforts said it was a very close call for many homes, but was amazed none were lost.

“It could’ve been bad. If the wind changed there could have been some fatalities,” he said.

About 25 locals spent the night in an evacuation centre, and a community meeting is planned for tomorrow at the Russell Island Recreation Hall.

All but three had returned home by this morning, Redland City Council said in a statement.

The fires are under control and burning safely within containment lines, but the council says the threat is not over.

Crews today dealt with flare-ups around the middle of the island near Centre Road to Rampart Drive.

Another fire burning in the inaccessible Melomy's Wetlands, at the southern end of the island, is also being watched closely.

"Fires can burn for a long time underground. We're keeping a close eye on that," Redlands Mayor Karen Williams told ABC radio.

She said there'd been no reports of any injuries or damage to homes, and said it would be up to investigators to determine if the fires were deliberately lit or not.

"We have a very resilient and prepared community," she said.

"We're encouraging people to remain very much alert ... and have their emergency plans at hand."

The Public Safety Preservation Act declared by police yesterday has now been revoked.

For the latest bushfire information visit Queensland Fire and Emergency Services’ Facebook page.