Residents are being urged to be extremely vigilant over the weekend as the fire danger rating remains high for the Shire.

Mayor Tom Gilmore said yesterday was a very sad reminder of the catastrophic effects bushfires can have on life and property.

“The fire at Biboohra devastatingly destroyed a family home, properties and livelihoods in the area,” Cr Gilmore said.

“On behalf of the community our thoughts are with the family and all those who were involved in the events that unfolded so rapidly Thursday afternoon.

“My sincere appreciation is extended to all the emergency service personnel and volunteers who faced difficult conditions and ultimately stopped the fire in its path of destruction.”

Fire crews also battled blazes at Chillagoe, Dimbulah, Watsonville, Irvinebank and Mareeba and thankfully the impact was largely minimal.

Visit Mareeba Shire Council’s emergency dashboard for the latest bushfire information and advice.