Inquiry into the State Mine Fire (also known as the bushfire starting at Marrangaroo Training Area), Lithgow
Demographics
unknown
Finding date
2019-05-14
Cause of death
Bushfire caused by demolition of surplus explosive ordnance at Marrangaroo Training Area
AI-generated summary
The State Mine Fire started on 16 October 2013 when ADF personnel conducted a demolition serial at Marrangaroo Training Area near Lithgow, NSW, to dispose of surplus explosive ordnance. The fire spread extensively across 54,862 hectares due to high winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation, destroying six residential properties, three industrial buildings, and one commercial building. No deaths occurred. The coroner found the demolition was conducted under amended Range Standing Orders that raised the fire danger threshold from HIGH to VERY HIGH; the original orders would have prohibited the activity. Following a Commission of Inquiry, the ADF and NSW Rural Fire Service implemented extensive reforms including revised fire management plans, hazard reduction measures, upgraded firefighting equipment, improved communication protocols, and liaison arrangements. The coroner found no recommendations necessary, noting that adequate steps have been taken to prevent recurrence.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Error types
Contributing factors
- Demolition conducted on HIGH fire danger rating day
- Amendment to Range Standing Orders raising threshold from HIGH to VERY HIGH
- High winds (25 km/h average, gusts to 40 km/h) and low relative humidity (20%)
- Lack of hazard reduction at training area for approximately 20 years prior
- Poor communication and coordination between ADF and RFS
- Inadequate fire management planning and protocols at the time
- Presence of unexploded ordnance preventing traditional firefighting methods
- Inaccessible terrain limiting firefighting equipment effectiveness
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