Western Power silence riles blaze victims
More than a fortnight since their $1.3 million Yallingup holiday home was obliterated by fire, a Perth couple say Western Power is yet to make contact or offer assistance despite evidence the blaze was sparked by a State-owned power pole.
Richard Camm and wife Debbie had to flee with nothing but the clothes on their backs as the fast-moving grass fire tore towards their four-bedroom homestead on January 5.
The fire, which threatened five other properties before firefighters brought it under control, gutted the house and destroyed an $85,000 BMW belonging to the Camms.
Western Power and EnergySafety investigated after witnesses claimed a power pole adjacent to the Camms' 4ha property exploded and sparked the fire.
Western Power has confirmed the power pole in question was a State asset.
Mr Camm, a Perth lawyer, said though he did not expect Western Power to admit liability during an investigation, the silence from the State-owned electricity provider showed a "callous disregard for the innocent victims of a fire".
"We are angered, disappointed and dismayed," Mr Camm said.
"Despite losing our home and the only car we had access to, and being left without accommodation, Western Power did not contact us to inquire if we needed any assistance, and now - over two weeks later - have still not been in contact in any way whatsoever.
"Surely we are entitled to a far better performance by government utilities."
Western Power head of safety, health and environment Richard Gough said the investigation into the cause of the Yallingup fire was continuing.
Mr Gough said he understood it was an "anxious time" for the Camms and Western Power would provide a dedicated point of contact for further assistance after receiving a letter from the couple yesterday.
Mr Camm said he and his wife were heartened by the support of the Yallingup community and strangers they met during and after the fire.
He also praised the "outstanding efforts" of firefighters who confined the blaze to his Cairnhill Homestead property, saving nearby houses and preventing any potential injury.
A spokeswoman for EnergySafety said that a public release of its report into the fire would depend on the results of the investigation.
