>> Teens charged over devastating Peregian bushfire

>> 'Get your facts': Mum of arson accused hits back

>> One home lost: Victim tells of fire's merciless spread

>> How fireys are beating the bushfire from hell

>> First look inside devastated Peregian bushfire zone

>> Inside the fire: Waterbombers race to save homes

>> VIDEOS: Inside the Peregian Springs fire zone

4.30PM UPDATE

After a massive effort, firefighters have contained the Peregian-area bushfire to the point they are dampening down hotspots and managing flare ups.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services have downgraded the bushfire warning level to "advice" and said separate associated bushfire warnings no longer apply.

"Currently as at 4pm Wednesday, 11 September, a fire is no longer active within the Peregian area," the latest QFES update stated.

A spokesman said residents could still expect plenty of QFES activity and patrols in the area.

They warned residents to remain vigilant after they were allowed to return home as of 1.30pm today.

"Residents should avoid walking in areas affected by the fire, including the National Park between David Low Way and Emu Mountain Road and the Peregian Beach foreshore, as there may be hot spots under the sand that could cause significant damage," the update stated.

Queensland Police Service have revoked the Public Safety Preservation Act for Peregian Springs and Peregian Beach, which encompasses Peregian Springs, Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, Weyba Downs, Marcus Beach and Castaways Beach.

1.45PM UPDATE

THE Peregian bushfire has been contained as all Sunshine Coast residents who were evacuated return home this afternoon.

As of 1.30pm, the bushfire is burning slowly in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach towards the southern end of Lake Weyba.

Crews have contained the fire and remain on scene dampening down hotspots.

A "stay informed" alert has been issued for residents of Weyba Downs and Peregian Breeze Estate. Residents should continue to keep up to date with emergency services.

At 1pm, Queensland Police Service advised that the Public Safety Preservation Act had been revoked and all Sunshine Coast residents could return to their homes.

Residents are still being urged to remain vigilant, and a strong police presence will remain in the area to support people returning after the fires.

Noosa Mayor Tony Wellington said he "couldn't be more proud" of the community members and local business who came together to support those affected in the fires.

"The community has rallied to help their fellow residents. Not just individuals opening doors to strangers and friends, but also the businesses who've offered support," Cr Wellington said.

Acting Sunshine Coast Mayor Tim Dwyer urged residents to be vigilant this fire season to prevent another "live threatening" situation.

"The Sunshine Coast is dry ... the conditions are exactly what a fire wants. Be completely prudent about the way that you conduct yourself even in your own backyard," he said.

Sunshine Coast Superintendent Darryl Johnson said police were speaking with two juveniles as they investigate the cause of the bushfire.

"We have a number of youths that we're speaking to at the moment about the fire," Spt Johnson said.

"Whether that's intentional or not, I'm not certain at this stage."

1PM UPDATE

ALL Sunshine Coast residents who were evacuated from their homes during the terrifying Peregian bushfire can now return to their homes.

Residents of Weyba, Weyba Downs and Peregian Breeze have been advised they can now safely return to their homes, joining those of Peregian Beach, Marcus Beach and Castaways Beach - areas east of the National Park.

Queensland Police Service advised that the Public Safety Preservation Act has been revoked and all Sunshine Coast residents could now return to their homes, however should remain vigilant.

A significant police presence will remain in the area to support the return of residents following the fires.

Police have thanked all residents for their understanding and support during the fires.

All roads are now open and Energex has advised supply has been restored to most homes in the affected areas.

Sunshine Coast Council does not have any evacuation centres currently open.

Peregian Beach College remains closed. Parents are being urged to contact schools directly for all other school and early learning centre updates.

11.20AM UPDATE

AS THE first residents flow in to their bushfire ravaged homes in Peregian, the emergency warning has been downgraded to "stay informed".

Residents in Peregian Beach, Marcus Beach and Castaways Beach are being advised by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services to keep up to date and decide what actions to take if the situation changes.

An emergency exclusion zone in Weyba, Weyba Downs and Peregian Breeze Estate is still in place.

As of 11am, the large fire continues to travel slowly in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach towards the southern end of Lake Weyba.

Crews have managed to slow the progress of the fire, however it remains uncontained.

Fire containment lines are in place and firefighting crews are in the area to prevent breaches.

Residents of Peregian Beach, Marcus Beach and Castaways Beach - areas east of the National Park - can now safely return to their homes, however all other evacuated areas are not yet safe to return to.

Residents of other suburbs should await further advice and continue to follow the advice of emergency services.

Residents of Weyba Downs and Peregian Breeze Estate are being advised to prepare to leave and be ready to follow their bushfire survival plan.

Those who have been evacuated from those areas should not return home until police advise it's safe to do so.

10.15AM UPDATE

THE road to Peregian has reopened and residents are pouring back in, as firefighters continue to battle a dangerous blaze on the Sunshine Coast's north.

Residents of Peregian Beach, Marcus Beach and Castaways Beach - areas east of the National Park - can now safely return to their homes, however all other evacuated areas are not yet safe to return to.

Residents of other suburbs should await further advice and continue to follow the advice of emergency services.

Queensland Police has advised an emergency situation is still in place in the Public Safety Preservation Act declared area around Weyba, Weyba Downs and Peregian Breeze.

Residents of these areas should not attempt to return to their homes at this stage.

David Low Way and the Sunshine Motorway are open to motorists and residents are urged to drive to the conditions and be patient as they make their way home.

Support services from Sunshine Coast Council and Noosa Council, Department of Communities and community support service groups will be available at Peregian Beach Community House at 255 David Low Way, Peregian Beach.

Police have established a police presence in a mobile police facility in the Peregian Beach Shopping Village town square.

Residents are lined up waiting for the police to open the roads so they return to their Peregian homes after two nights. Photo: John McCutcheon john mccutcheon

Residents returning home are urged to use caution as they assess any damage and refrain from eating any food which may have spoiled if power has been cut. Further details will follow about how to dispose of waste.

"We thank the residents for their patience, forbearance and especially a big thank-you to those who have offered support to those who were displaced," Noosa Mayor Tony Wellington said.

Noosa Council has provided a map outlining the streets that residents are able to return to.

It will also provide additional waste services so people can dispose of perishable goods from fridges and freezers.

Please do not call 000 or local police stations, including the Coolum Police Station, unless it is an emergency.

Power, water and telecommunications may be affected in some areas. Charge your mobile phones now in case you lose power.

If you rely on electricity and power pumps to fight fires, please arrange alternative arrangements such as generators or petrol or diesel pumps.

7AM UPDATE

RESIDENTS in bushfire ravaged areas in the Sunshine Coast's north are still unable to return home after spending a second night in emergency accommodation.

As of 6.40am, the large fire continues to travel slowly in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach towards the southern end of Lake Weyba.

Crews have managed to slow the progress of the fire, however it remains uncontained.

A monstrous and devastating fire ripped through Peregian Springs, Peregian Breeze and Peregian Beach heading north towards Marcus Beach and Noosa. Photo Patrick Woods / Sunshine Coast Daily. Patrick Woods

A "watch and act" warning is still in place for residents in Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, south of Lake Weyba, and Weyba Downs.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services has advised residents who have been evacuated to not return to their homes until authorities advise it's safe to do so.

A further "stay informed" bushfire warning applies to residents of Marcus Beach and Castaways Beach.

More than 5000 people from about 2500 homes were evacuated on Monday night while flames jumping across back yards and roads terrified residents.

Noosa Mayor Tony Wellington warned them on Tuesday night that it was still too dangerous to go home.

"We are not out of the woods yet, unfortunately, although there has been massive air bombing going on the fire still is threatening the Weyba Downs area."

Forty homes were evacuated at Weyba Downs on Tuesday, just inland from the hard- hit Peregian Beach area, as winds picked up.

Police are expected to reassess possible entry into the evacuated fire areas this morning. Road blocks at Peregian and Marcus Beach have remained since the fire broke out on Monday night.

Officers say they will make a decision about 8am on wheter to let residents back in.

The State Government has advised Peregian Beach College remains closed today.

Evacuation centres remain open at:

• Nambour Showgrounds on Coronation Avenue, Nambour

• Fishermans Road Multi Sports Centre at 108 Fishermans Road, Maroochydore.

• Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville

• The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Junction.

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you believe your property is under threat.

6AM UPDATE

POLICE will reassess possible entry into the evacuated fire areas this morning after many residents wake up for the second morning still locked out of their homes.

Road blocks at Peregian and Marcus Beach have remained since the fire broke out Monday night, but police say they will make a decision about 8am on whether to let residents back in.

The areas remained closed to residents last night as a precaution.

A spokesman from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said the decision was made by police to allow emergency clear access to the streets if another fire were to break out.

Energex crews worked tirelessly yesterday to erect power poles around Peregian Beach claimed by the flames.

More crews are expected to head to the Coast in the next hour to help battle the blaze burning in bushland and travelling in a north, north easterly direction.

4.30AM UPDATE

Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate and the south of Lake Weyba bushfire as at 3.50am

Bushfire warning level: WATCH AND ACT

PEREGIAN home owners impacted by the ferocious fire which started on Monday afternoon are being urged not to return to the fire zone yet.

"People who have evacuated these areas should not return. They will be notified when it is safe to return to the area,'' Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advised just before 4am.

"Currently as at 3.50am Wednesday 11 September, a large fire continues to travel slowly in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach towards the southern end of Lake Weyba.

"Crews have managed to slow the progress of the fire however it remains uncontained.

"Firefighters may not be able to protect every property.

"People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.

Evacuation centres remain open at:

• Nambour Showgrounds on Coronation Avenue, Nambour

• Fishermans Road Multi Sports Centre at 108 Fishermans Road, Maroochydore.

• Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville

• The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Junction.

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you believe your property is under threat.

UPDATE 9PM:

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has declared that the Peregian Beach Exclusion Zone is still in place and will be for the rest of the night.

Those who have been evacuated will not be able to return to their homes tonight due to utility outages and risk of fire.

Please do not attempt to return to your home until advised by Queensland Police Service or Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.

At this stage containment lines are in place and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) crews are in the area to prevent breaches.

The Emergency Declaration Area is still in place with the following boundaries: David Low Way, Emu Mountain Road, Sunshine Motorway and Woodland Drive.

A 737 Air Tanker was used this afternoon to drop bio-degradable fire suppressant gel in front of the fire front, four helicopters were also used to water-bomb the fire.

EVACUATION CENTRES

Currently Sunshine Coast Council have two Evacuation Centres open:

• Nambour Showgrounds, Coronation Avenue, Nambour (75 Beds)

• Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex, Fisherman's Road, Maroochydore (25 Beds).

ROAD ACCESS

• David Low Way remains closed in both directions, from Emu Mountain Road to Mahogany Drive

• The David Low Way remains closed in a northern direction from Coolum Beach Surf Club

• The Sunshine Motorway is open again

• Bruce Highway remains open.

5PM: RESIDENTS in fire-ravaged areas of the Sunshine Coast have been dealt a fresh blow with a new alert urging them to leave their homes now.

Queensland Fire and Emergence Services says people living in the Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate and south of Lake Weyba should leave immediately as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.

At 4.25pm, QFES advised a large and unpredictable fire continues to travel in a north, north-westerly direction from Peregian Beach towards the southern end of Lake Weyba.

Residents living to the south of Lake Weyba, along Clarendon Road and Win Road, are advised to evacuate in a westerly direction along Murdering Creek Road and Emu Mountain Road, towards Cooroy.

Peregian Beach residents should evacuate in a northerly direction towards Noosa.

Residents of Peregian Breeze Estate should evacuate in a southerly direction along Sunshine Motorway towards the Nambour Showgrounds on Coronation Avenue, Nambour, or Fishermans Road Multi Sports Centre at 108 Fishermans Road and Maroochydore.

Evacuation centres remain open at the Cooroy Library, 9 Maple Street, Cooroy, Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville and The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drive and Noosa Junction.

Power, water, and mobile phone service may be lost and road conditions may become very dangerous over the next several hours.

3.30PM UPDATE

Desperate residents are hoping a massive Boeing 737 jetload of fire retardant has done enough to bring a roaring firefront under control.

The Larger Air Tanker, with a payload of 15,000l, laid a trail of fire retardant in front of the fire front threatening areas west of Peregian about 3pm.

Waterbombing helicopters were also swarming the area, which has been scorched by the blaze fanned by a strong southeasterly wind since midday.

Boeing 737 drops fire retardant on Peregian fires: A massive Boeing 737 jetload of fire retardant has been dropped on the Peregian bushfires. Boeing 737 drops fire retardant on Peregian fires: A massive Boeing 737 jetload of fire retardant has been dropped on the Peregian bushfires.

The LAT arrived on the Sunshine Coast today after several false starts.

It will return to NSW after dropping its payload today.

"We will get one opportunity with that aircraft so that's a 737 with 15,000l of load on there," Assistant Fire Commissioner Gary McCormack said this afternoon.

"So, we can do two half loads to half drops, but we only get one load."

The LAT had been recalled several times as it made its way to Queensland because NSW is suffering its own bushfire emergency.

The fire around Peregian is unlikely to be contained today as a strong southeasterly continues to gather pace.

Mr Gary McCormack said crews could be there for days battling the blaze.

"The southeasterly is picking up, so we are expecting 40 to 50km/h consistently throughout the afternoon," he said.

"So we will not leave that fire until we are into 100 per cent confident that we have that contained under under those wind conditions.

"It's unlikely that we would reach that position today, we will remain hopeful, but it's unlikely we will and we will have crews on that fire throughout the evening and potentially days to come."

Mr McCormack thanked the community for its patience.

"We will do everything we can to get you back in your home safely. But we won't return you until we are sure it is safe," he said.

QFES have been using an "aerial assault strategy" which has worked in parts but there remains an uncontrolled fire front.

People will not be allowed to return to their homes until the fire front is controlled to a point that it is safe.

OUT OF CONTROL: Helicopters monitor the fire front from the air. Photo: John McCutcheon / Sunshine Coast Daily john mccutcheon

2PM UPDATE

The fire menacing the Sunshine Coast has flared again with a freshening southeasterly wind getting behind it.

Residents living in Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, Marcus Beach and Lake Weyba have been advised to leave immediately as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.

Residents in Lake Weyba south of Clarendon Rd and Win Rd are now being advised to evacuate west along Murdering Creek Rd and Emu Mountain Rd.

Residents from Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach are advised to travel to Noosa, while those in Peregian Breeze Estate should drive south along the Sunshine Mwy to Nambour.

Evacuation centres currently open are the Cooroy Library, Cooroy, the Noosa Leisure Centre, Noosaville, and The J Noosa in Noosa Junction.

Aerial bombers are targeting the base of the fire between Murdering Creek Road and the west of fire-ravaged Peregian.

Water bombers continue to battle an out of control bushfire at Peregian Beach. Photo Lachie Millard

Conditions are now very dangerous and firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing. The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path.

Fire crews may not be able to protect your property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door: act now.

Power, water, and mobile phone service may be lost and road conditions may become very dangerous over the next several hours.

People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you believe you are under threat.

One of our crews working in the Peregian area has sent this video through of the water bombing effort going on. It's an impressive sight and we are so thankful to the pilots for working so hard. #bushfire pic.twitter.com/qqp56US1Lt — Queensland Police (@QldPolice) September 10, 2019



1PM UPDATE

PEREGIAN Springs, Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate and Marcus Beach residents have been told to evacuate immediately.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Service warns conditions are now very dangerous and firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing.

"The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path," it said.

The fast-moving fire was travelling in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate. It is heading towards Marcus Beach and Weyba.

Residents have been advised to leave immediately, as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.

Police are looking into whether arson may be behind the blazes.

Queensland's top cop said there has been "reckless and purposeful behaviour" in the vicinity of the bushfires.

More than 80 fires are now raging across Queensland and 17 homes have been lost.

Eight fires are being investigated for possible human involvement.

News agency AAP has reported three Queensland teenagers are being interviewed by police after allegedly boasting on the internet that they lit a devastating fire on the Sunshine Coast.

The teens reportedly used a local chat room to admit to lighting the fast-moving Peregian fire on Monday afternoon.

The Peregian Beach Surf and Lifesaving Club posted on its Facebook page that they were sent a screenshot of an internet chat room message. "It has been reported that three teenage boys handed themselves in after the screenshot was passed around by their friends," the surf club posted.

Police wouldn't confirm the teens came to their attention because of the message but have confirmed officers were speaking with the boys over a fire that started in bushland off Koel Circuit in Peregian Springs about 4.30pm on Monday. No charges have been laid.

On Tuesday morning Queensland Police commissioner Katarina Carroll said parents needed to have a word with their kids.

"Some fires have just clearly gotten away from kids thinking they are having fun. There has been reckless and purposeful behaviour from others."

"Parents, please speak to your children. These are not usual conditions, they are actually quite dangerous," she said.

A bushfire emergency situation has been officially declared in Queensland's southeast, with at least 10 homes in the Peregian Beach area already lost. That number is expected to rise.

Authorities have described the situation as the worst start to the Queensland bushfire season in history, with new footage from inside the Peregian Beach disaster zone revealing the extent of the horror.

A string of four water bombing helicopters are pouring hope from the sky for embattled residents and fire crews trying to save Sunshine Coast homes from the blaze.

The four, which moved up early this morning from where they had been battling flames in the Gold Coast hinterland are collecting water from Peregian Springs golf course lakes every two minutes.

They are dropping 3000 litres every load.

A Boeing 737 large air tanker is also being brought in to help aerial firefighters drop water on the dangerous blaze at Peregian Breeze Estate, media reports.

The jet plane carries a 15,000L payload of water and fire retardant and flies at 850km/h when fully loaded.

PREPARE TO LEAVE: Weyba Downs, Peregian Springs and Castaways Beach (part of the Peregian fire) bushfire as at 12pm Tue 10 Sep

Bushfire warning level: WATCH AND ACT

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advises there is a bushfire in Peregian Beach and conditions are getting worse.

You need to be ready to follow your bushfire survival plan. If you do not have a plan, or intend to leave, you should be ready to leave the area because the situation could get worse quickly.

Currently as at 12pm Tuesday 10 September, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate. It is heading towards Marcus Beach and Weyba.

It is currently impacting Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate and Weyba. A separate bushfire warning applies to residents of Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, Marcus Beach and Weyba. These residents should refer to the Emergency Warning (Leave Immediately) for Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, Marcus Beach and Weyba.

It is expected to impact Peregian Springs and Weyba Downs.

Fire crews are working to contain the fire but firefighters may not be able to protect every property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door.

People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.

Residents who wish to evacuate in Weyba Downs and Peregian Springs should travel in a north westerly direction to Emu Mountain Road and Walter Hay Drive towards Cooroy.

Residents who wish to evacuate in Castaways Beach should travel to David Low Way towards Noosa.

Evacuation centres are open for people travelling north at the Cooroy Library, 9 Maple Street, Cooroy, Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville and The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Junction.

LEAVE IMMEDIATELY: Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, Marcus Beach and Weyba bushfire as at 12pm Tues 10 Sept

Bushfire warning level: EMERGENCY WARNING

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advises there is a bushfire approaching Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, Marcus Beach and Weyba. Leaving immediately is the safest option, as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.

Currently as at 12pm Tuesday 10 September, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate. It is heading towards Marcus Beach and Weyba.

The fire is expected to have a significant impact on the community.

Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach residents should evacuate in a northerly direction towards Noosa.

Residents of Peregian Breeze Estate should evacuate in a southerly direction along Sunshine Motorway towards the Nambour Showgrounds on Coronation Avenue, Nambour, or Fishermans Road Multi Sports Centre at 108 Fishermans Road, Maroochydore.

Residents of Weyba should evacuate in a north west direction to Emu Mountain Road and Walter Hay Drive towards Cooroy.

Evacuation centres are open for people travelling north at the Cooroy Library, 9 Maple Street, Cooroy, Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville and The J Noosa, 60 Noosa Drive, Noosa Junction.

Conditions are now very dangerous and firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing. The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path. Fire crews may not be able to protect your property.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:

Listen to your local radio station or visit the Rural Fire Service (RFS) website for regular updates.

Put on protective clothing (e.g., a long-sleeved cotton shirt, boots with thick soles).

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

If you suffer from a respiratory condition, keep your medication close by.

If you are leaving:

Secure your pets for safe transport.

Check for road closures and then advise family and friends of your intended travel route.

Take your important documents and essential items (e.g., passports, birth certificates, prescription medication, food and water, and protective clothing) when you leave.

Drive with caution in low visibility conditions.

If you are unable to leave:

Bring pets inside; restrain them with a leash, a cage, or inside a secure room; and provide them with plenty of water.

Fill containers such as your bath, sinks, and buckets with water so you have access to drinking water and firefighting water.

Close windows and doors, sealing the gaps under doors and screens with wet towels to keep smoke out of the house.

Identify a safe spot to shelter in, which would be a place with more than one exit, preferably inside a brick building, away from windows and doors. The safest spot is the place that will keep you furthest away from the intense heat from the fire. As the fire approaches and passes, the safest spot will change, so be ready to move.

9.45AM UPDATE:

LEAVE IMMEDIATELY: Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate, Marcus Beach and Weyba

As of 9.45am, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate. It is heading towards Marcus Beach and Weyba.

The fire is expected to have a significant impact on the community.

9AM UPDATE:

Air support has arrived to help tackle the Peregian Springs bushfires.

McDermott Aviation have supplied four helicopters of its fleet of 15 to join the six choppers being used on the fire front.

As of 7.20am, the fire was moving in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Springs towards Marcus Beach.

Residents in Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate and Marcus Beach have been urged to leave immediately.

Weyba, Weyba Downs, Peregian Springs and Castaways Beach residents have been urged to prepare to leave.

#BREAKING Air support has now arrived to tackle the fire front of the Peregian Fire @WINNews_SCoast @10NewsFirstQLD pic.twitter.com/tdWzWsERGt — Brendan 'Westy' West (@westy67968) September 9, 2019



8AM UPDATE:

Police have warned those trying to access the Peregian exclusion zone to stay away.

"Some people are trying to gain access to the Peregian exclusion zone via the beach. This is extremely dangerous," police said in a statement.

"Please stay away as the emergency declaration is still in place."

An exclusion zone around the Sunshine Coast bushfires has been described as a "ghost town". Hundreds of residents have been evacuated as the fire moves north, north westerly towards Noosa. john mccutcheon

7.30AM UPDATE

LEAVE IMMEDIATELY: Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate and Marcus Beach

As of 7.20am, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north, north westerly direction from Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate. It is heading towards Marcus Beach.

The fire is expected to have a significant impact on the community.

Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach residents should evacuate in a northerly direction towards Noosa.

Residents of Peregian Breeze Estate should evacuate in a southerly direction along Sunshine Motorway towards the Nambour Showgrounds on Coronation Avenue, Nambour, or Fishermans Road Multi Sports Centre at 108 Fishermans Road, Maroochydore.

Forward command centre, planning aerial operation at the scene of the Peregian Springs bushfires. Scott Sawyer

Evacuation centres are open for people travelling north at the Cooroy Library, 9 Maple Street, Cooroy and the Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville.

Conditions are now very dangerous and firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing. The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path. Fire crews may not be able to protect your property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door: act now.

Power, water, and mobile phone service may be lost and road conditions may become very dangerous over the next several hours.

People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you believe you are under threat.

A monstrous and devastating fire ripped through Peregian Springs, Peregian Breeze and Peregian Beach heading north towards Marcus Beach and Noosa. Fierce winds fuelled the flames as they destroyed property and threatened more. Firefighters and emergency crews risked their lives to fight the front as it mercilessly rolled through dry bushland. Thick smoke and embners constantly threatened new fires.Photo: John McCutcheon / Sunshine Coast Daily john mccutcheon

7AM UPDATE

LEAVE IMMEDIATELY: Peregian Beach, Peregian Breeze Estate and Marcus Beach bushfire as OF 6.40am

Bushfire warning level: EMERGENCY WARNING

Residents in Weyba, Weyba Downs, Peregian Springs and Castaways Beach are being urged to prepare to leave.

A "stay informed" alert has been issued for residents in Sunrise Beach and Sunshine Beach.

6.30AM UPDATE

STAY INFORMED: Sunrise Beach / Sunshine Beach bushfire as at 6.05am Tue 10 Sep

Bushfire warning level: ADVICE

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advises there is a bushfire in Peregian and surrounding areas.

You need to keep up to date and decide what actions you will take if the situation changes.

Currently as at 6.05am, Tuesday 10 September, a bushfire travelling in a northerly direction towards Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze estate.

People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you believe you or your property is under threat.

6AM UPDATE

Hundreds of residents have spent the night in evacuation centres as bushfires rage through Peregian Springs and Peregian Beach, heading north to Marcus Beach, Weyba and Noosa.

As of 4.20am, the fast-moving fire was travelling in a north, north-easterly direction from Emu Mountain Road towards Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate. It is impacting Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate.

Residents have been advised to leave immediately, as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.

The Sunshine Motorway remains closed in both directions, and David Low Way is closed north of Emu Mountain Rd.

Cars continue to queue up along David Low Way, waiting to get into Peregian Beach this morning, with a roadblock still in place.

Energex crews are mobile and in the area, preparing to restore power as daylight breaks revealing a charred landscape just metres from Coolum Beach State High School.

Smoke is thick in the air still at the southern end of Peregian Beach.

It's not known yet exactly when residents will be allowed back into town to assess the damage.

Some are parked on the side of the road ringing loved ones to find out if they're okay, as the blaze keeps burning north.

The State Government has advised Coolum State High School and Peregian Springs State School are closed today.

Parents of students who attend private schools have been urged to contact the schools directly.

UPDATE 4.30AM

LEAVE IMMEDIATELY: Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate bushfire as at 4.20am

Bushfire warning level: EMERGENCY WARNING

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advises there is a bushfire approaching Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate. Leaving immediately is the safest option, as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.

Follow your bushfire survival plan now. If you do not have a plan, your safest option is to leave immediately if it is clear to do so. If you cannot leave, identify where you will seek shelter from the bushfire. If you are not in the area, do not return, as conditions are too dangerous.

Currently as at 4.20am Tuesday 10 September, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north, north-easterly direction from Emu Mountain Road towards Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate. It is impacting Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate.

The previous bushfire warning applied to Peregian Springs and Marcus Beach. Residents of Peregian Springs and Marcus Beach should now refer to the Watch and Act (Prepare to Leave) warning for residents of Weyba, Weyba Downs, Peregian Springs, Castaways Beach and Marcus Beach (part of the Peregian fire) bushfire as at 4.10am Tue 10 September.

The fire is expected to have a significant impact on the community.

A bushfire burns close to Peregian homes. Ian Martin

Peregian Beach residents should evacuate in a northerly direction towards Noosa.

PREPARE TO LEAVE: Weyba/Weyba Downs/Peregian Springs/Castaways Beach and Marcus Beach (part of the Peregian fire) bushfire as at 4.10am Tue 10 Sep

Bushfire warning level: WATCH AND ACT

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advises there is a bushfire in Peregian Beach and conditions are getting worse.

You need to be ready to follow your bushfire survival plan. If you do not have a plan, or intend to leave, you should be ready to leave the area because the situation could get worse quickly.

Currently as at 4.10am Tuesday 10 September, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north, north-westerly direction from Noosa National Park between Woodland Drive and Emu Mountain Road at Peregian Beach towards Weyba, Weyba Downs, Marcus Beach.

It is currently impacting Peregian Beach. A separate bushfire warning applies to residents of Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze. These residents should refer to the Emergency Warning (Leave Immediately) warning for Peregian Beach and Peregian Breeze Estate.

It is expected to impact Peregian Springs, Marcus Beach, Weyba and Weyba Downs.

UPDATE 1.30am

LEAVE IMMEDIATELY: Peregian Springs/Peregian Beach/Peregian Breeze Estate and Marcus Beach bushfire as at 1.15am

Bushfire warning level: EMERGENCY WARNING

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises there is a bushfire approaching Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach. Leaving immediately is the safest option, as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.

Follow your bushfire survival plan now. If you do not have a plan, your safest option is to leave immediately if it is clear to do so. If you cannot leave, identify where you will seek shelter from the bushfire. If you are not in the area, do not return, as conditions are too dangerous.

Currently as at 1.15am a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north-easterly direction from Emu Mountain Road towards Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach. It is impacting Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach.

The fire is expected to have a significant impact on the community.

Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach residents should evacuate in a northerly direction towards Noosa.

Residents of Peregian Breeze Estate should evacuate in a north-west direction along Old Emu Mountain Road and travel towards Noosa or Noosaville.

Evacuation centres are open for people travelling north at the Cooroy Library, 9 Maple Street, Cooroy and the Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville.

Residents in Tritonia Drive, Rowan Court, Waratah Court, Needle Court, Lupin Place and Kanooka Avenue should evacuate in a southerly direction towards Maroochydore.

Evacuation centres are open for people travelling south at the Multi Sport Centre, Fishermans Road, Maroochydore and the Nambour Showgrounds, Coronation Avenue, Nambour.

Conditions are now very dangerous and firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing. The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path. Fire crews may not be able to protect your property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door: act now.

Power, water, and mobile phone service may be lost and road conditions may become very dangerous over the next several hours.

UPDATE 12.15am

PREPARE TO LEAVE: Weyba/Castaways Beach/Sunrise Beach/Sunshine Beach/Noosa Springs (part of the Peregian fire) bushfire as at 11.45pm Mon 9 Sept

Bushfire warning level: WATCH AND ACT

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advises there is a bushfire in Peregian Springs/Peregian Beach/Peregian Breeze Estate and Marcus Beach and conditions are getting worse.

You need to be ready to follow your bushfire survival plan. If you do not have a plan, or intend to leave, you should be ready to leave the area because the situation could get worse quickly.

Currently as at 11.45pm Monday 9 September, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north, north easterly direction from Woodland Drive towards Marcus Beach. It is currently impacting Peregian Beach.

It is expected to impact Marcus Beach.

Fire crews are working to contain the fire but firefighters may not be able to protect every property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door.

People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.

Residents at the southern end of Lake Weyba, between Lakewood Drive, Clarendon Road, Emu Mountain Road and Woodland Drive who wish to evacuate should head north-west along Emu Mountain Road to Noosaville.

Residents who wish to evacuate in Castaway Beach, Sunrise Beach and Sunshine Beach should travel to Eenie Creek Road, and then head west towards the Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville.

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if you believe your property is under threat.



• Close windows and doors, sealing the gaps under doors and screens with wet towels to keep smoke out of the house.

UPDATE 10.30PM: AN AGED care home, sewage plant and shopping centre are under threat by a fast moving fire in the Peregian area.

Fire fighters are preparing to evacuate a Peregian Springs nursing home with more than 90 residents taking shelter in the foyer.

Reports indicate fire crews were called about 9.45pm to help residents at Arcare Peregian Springs Aged Care leave the building.

All residents are currently in the foyer.

There are reports gas bottles are "in the line of fire".

There are also reports the sewage plant is "under threat", with multiple crews rushing to the scene.

Two crews are also responding to a fire at Coles at Peregian Beach.

A section of the fire is reportedly 700m long and burning through thick cane land.

The latest warning from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services was issued at 9.55pm:

UPDATE LEAVE IMMEDIATELY: Peregian Springs/Peregian Beach/Peregian Breeze Estate and Marcus Beach bushfire as at 9.55pm Mon 9 Sept

Bushfire warning level: EMERGENCY WARNING

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) advises there is a bushfire approaching Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach. Leaving immediately is the safest option, as it will soon be too dangerous to drive.

Follow your bushfire survival plan now. If you do not have a plan, your safest option is to leave immediately if it is clear to do so. If you cannot leave, identify where you will seek shelter from the bushfire. If you are not in the area, do not return, as conditions are too dangerous.

Currently as at 9.55pm Monday 9 September, a fast-moving fire is travelling in a north-easterly direction from Emu Mountain Road towards Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach. It is impacting Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach.

The fire is expected to have a significant impact on the community.

Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach residents should evacuate in a northerly direction towards Noosa.

Residents of Peregian Breeze Estate should evacuate in a north-west direction along Old Emu Mountain Road and travel towards Noosa or Noosaville.

An evacuation centre is open for people travelling north at The J Theatre Noosa, 60 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads or the Noosa Leisure Centre, Wallace Drive, Noosaville.

Residents in Tritonia Drive, Rowan Court, Waratah Court, Needle Court, Lupin Place and Kanooka Avenue should evacuate in a southerly direction towards Maroochydore.

Evacuation centres for people travelling south are open at the Coolum Beach Surf Club, 779 David Low Way, Coolum Beach and Multi Sport Centre, Fishermans Road Maroochydore.

Conditions are now very dangerous and firefighters may soon be unable to prevent the fire advancing. The fire may pose a threat to all lives directly in its path. Fire crews may not be able to protect your property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door: act now.

Power, water, and mobile phone service may be lost and road conditions may become very dangerous over the next several hours.

People in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services crews are preparing to defend Coolum State High School, which is under threat from an out-of-control bushfire.

Almost 70 firefighting crews are currently on scene with reports up to 30 extra crews have been deployed tonight.

Coolum Surf Club is currently full of concerned residents with no place to sleep.

Peregian Springs man Lee Francey and his two children attempted to get home to their wife and mum, but flames stopped them in their tracks.

They turned around and took refuge at the surf club.

"I'd say the feeling here is just nervous and I have two nervous kids here whose mother is stuck at home," Mr Francey said.

"I think the Springs residents now feel okay but it's the Marcus and Peregian Beach homes that might be in strife.

"It looked like Coolum High School was in a bit of trouble as well."

Acting Sergeant Tony Noble addressed the nervous residents.

"People from QFES, police and SES are having a bit of rouble out there and the winds aren't working in there favour," he said.

"Some of the areas of initial concern around Peregian Springs are probably not so bad now but further north it's not look good as there is a lot of wind blowing up that way."

8.45PM: Firefighters have confirmed up to 10 homes or more in Peregian Beach have been destroyed in tonight's inferno and residents have reported a service station has also caught fire.

At least 10 homes were understood to have been ablaze in the Lorikeet Dr and Jacana St, Peregian Beach, area about 15 minutes ago and some homes are understood have been destroyed.

The reports of the Peregian Beach service station being ablaze are unconfirmed, but there is a service station on David Low Way, near the intersection with Lorikeet Dr.

Authorities are now also urging residents in Castaways Beach, Sunrise Beach, Sunshine Beach, Noosa Springs, Noosa Heads, Noosa Junction to prepare to leave.

Ninderry MP Dan Purdie confirmed both Coolum Beach State High School and Peregian Springs State School would be closed on Tuesday.

UPDATE 7.40PM: Police have declared an emergency situation at Peregian Springs and Peregian Beach in relation to a bushfire in the area.

The declaration was made at 7:08pm under the provisions of the Public Safety Preservation Act.

The declared zone is bounded by Old Emu Mountain Rd, David Low Way, the Sunshine Coast Motorway and Podargus Parade.

Police are urging residents within the area to self-evacuate and for anyone outside the zone to avoid travel to the area.

An evacuation centre has been established at the Coolum Surf Life Saving Club.

UPDATE: 7.10PM:

Police are driving around with loudspeakers screaming for residents to flee an imminent inferno.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said a fast-moving fire was travelling in an east, north-east direction from Emu Mountain Rd towards Pitta St and Lorikeet Drive.

It is expected to impact Coolum State High School on Havana Road East, Pitta St and Lorikeet Drive.

Peregian Beach residents between Emu Mountain Rd and north to Peregian Esplanade should evacuate in a northerly direction towards Noosa.

Residents of Peregian Breeze Estate should evacuate in a north-west direction along Old Emu Mountain Road toward Noosa.

An evacuation centre is open for people travelling north at The J Theatre Noosa, 60 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads.

Residents in Tritonia Drive, Rowan Court, Waratah Court, Needle Court, Lupin Place and Kanooka Avenue should evacuate in a southerly direction towards Maroochydore.

Evacuation centres for people travelling south are open at the Coolum Beach Surf Club, 779 David Low Way, Coolum Beach and Multi Sport Centre, Fishermans Road Maroochydore.

Drivers are being told to the only way to travel north or south from the area is along the Bruce Highway.

Fire crews are working to contain the fire but firefighters may not be able to protect every property. You should not expect a firefighter at your door. Power, water, and mobile phone service may be lost.

UPDATE 5.40pm:

RESIDENTS have been advised to leave Peregian Springs now as a raging bushfire blazes through the suburb.

After the Sunshine Mwy was cut off by the fire, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advised conditions were getting worse.

QFES said the safest option for residents was to leave now, if it is clear to do so.

Those who aren't currently in the area have been told not to return, as conditions are too dangerous.

FIRE RAGES: A fire at Peregian Springs threatens to cut off the Sunshine Mwy.

EARLIER

FOUR fire crews on scene and another eight are on the way to battle a blaze at Peregian Springs which has shut down the Sunshine Mwy in both directions.

A bushfire is currently travelling from Godwit Pl and the Sunshine Mwy towards Emu Mountain Arterial Rd.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services advised that people in the area will be affected by smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality.

Properties are not under direct threat at this time.

Residents are asked to avoid the area due to large quantities of smoke.

Call triple-0 immediately if you believe you or your property is under threat.