"Some of the most dramatic stories of marine disasters have been recorded in the short' notes of a mariner's log. This is, we believe, the first occasion that a fire drama has been told from the log of a Radio Station. By courtesy of Mr. C. S. Sharp, general manager of Station 2CA, we have been permitted to inspect the log of the station for Saturday.
The following reports reveal a unique service to the community and an inspiring response, whereby an inestimable amount of property and probably human lives, were saved on the unprecedented fire front of about 50 miles.
Alarm at Dawn6.15 a.m. We have received the following message from the Braidwood Bush Fire Brigade: A fire is t raging on the Bombay Plain. We have been fighting it all night, but a at 4 o'clock it beat us owing to the fierce gale. Fire fighters are urgently required, as the fire is sweeping towards the Jinglemay settlement and the properties of Kennedy and Crown.
6.30 The Postmaster at Hall has reported that from Mr.J. C. Moore's property men have been fighting a fire on the other side of the Murrumbidgee and trying to stop it crossing the river, which is very low. The properties of J. Moore, Brown and Hibberson are in danger. 2CA has been asked to appeal for volunteers to assist the fire fighting.
7.30 We have had several calls from volunteers asking what they should do. Will all volunteers assemble outside the studios of 2CA. Lorry and car owners are wanted. Will they please report outside 2CA.
8.00 A report from Jeir States that the fire has crossed the Murrumbidgee near Murrumbateman and the position may become serious.
8.10 Members of the militia are asked to give their services where possible to assist in fighting the bush fires.
9.15 An appeal to cricketers to cancel the competition matches, to join the fire fighters.
10.06 The fire has crossed the Murrumbidgee River past Hall at Glenwood Station, three miles from the Yass Road.
11.00 Mr. R. G. Hyles, of Uriarra Station reports that the homestead is in danger. There is no need of food and water, but fire beaters are required. Can any cars and men available please report at the Drill Hall as soon as possible.
11.10 We have received a call from Queanbeyan announcing that a lorry is available ana waiting in Camp Bell street to transport 50 men to assist at the Urriara fire.
Stromlo Threatened12 Noon The fire has jumped the Murrumbidgee at Milson's property and is moving towards the pine plantations at Mount Stromlo.
12.10 p.m. All residents of Mount Stromlo have been warned to be prepared to leave their homes at a minute's notice in case the fire danger to Mount Stromlo increases.
12.30 Lt.-Col. H. E. Jones, Chief of Police, asked us to appeal to householders in Canberra to conserve the water supply as far as possible so that should an emergency arise in which strong pressure is required at vital points, the water will be available.
3.00 The Postmaster at Royalla has made a request for assistance.
Fires from all Quarters3.10 Serious outbreaks of fires are reported at Tidbinbilla, Cuppacumbalong, Booroomba and Lanyon.
3.30 We have received a call from Queanbeyan asking that all available men in the Queanbeyan district to enlist for fire fighting in the Tharwa district.
3.30 An urgent call has been received from the Yass Bush Fire Brigade for volunteers to assist in fire fighting at Mullion. Men are asked to report as soon as possible.
3.45 A report from Lambrigg homestead states that the fire has crossed Castle Hill, and an urgent call is made for help.
4.30 Mr. Briggs, of the Yass Bush Fire Brigade, reports that a serious fire is raging at Pudman and has entered Charlie Daley's property. People from Rye Park, Dalton and Wargela are asked to help. Their assistance is badly needed.
4.35 The fire has spread to Teumburra, where Mr. Roley McFeeter's property is in danger. Hall and Unanderra residents are asked to help as the outbreak is likely to be dangerous."