Two 11yo boys have been charged over a destructive bushfire that destroyed one home and damaged property in Geraldton

Two boys have been charged over a devastating bushfire that tore through a coastal community destroying one home and damaging property this week. Police allege two 11-year-old boys lit the fire in the Geraldton suburb of Spalding on WA’s Mid West Coast on November 28. The fire spread into bushland and was extinguished by firefighters, but reignited on Sunday due to weather conditions. The fire was fuelled by strong and swirly, easterly wind gusts up to 80km/h from about 5.20am on Monday, endangering lives and hundreds of properties in the city’s northern suburbs. Residents fled their homes, schools closed and thousands were without power as the “dangerous” bushfire burned dangerously close to houses. A police spokesman said four juveniles were identified during their investigation into the suspicious blaze. The spokesman said two 11-year-olds were referred to the Juvenile Justice Team charged with Breach of Duty. “Lighting fires is extremely dangerous and can put lives and property at risk,” a spokesman said. “Thank you to the Department of Fire and Emergency (DFES) crews and local volunteers for their quick response in keeping the Geraldton community safe. “Investigators would also like to thank the community of Geraldton for assisting and providing valuable information which supported this investigation.” A GoFundMe page has been set up for Nic Morgan and Lyn Bartlett who lost their home in the devastating bushfire. Family member Allee Bartlett said the couple were returning from medical appointments in Perth when they came home to find their world turned upside down. “Devastatingly, they have lost absolutely everything. They left their home with only the clothes on their backs and the items they took to Perth,” she said. “Most heartbreaking of all, they returned to find that their beloved pet cat Smudge did not survive the fire. This loss has left them shattered.” Goodstart Early Learning Wonthella also created a fundraiser for their staff member Gail and her daughter whose home was severely damaged in the fire. “In a single night, their world changed — they lost precious belongings, their stability, and the sense of safety every family deserves,” a spokesman said. “Every donation — no matter the size — will go directly toward replacing essential items, securing safe accommodation, and helping Gail and Harper begin the long journey of restoring their home and their lives.” Police urged anyone who saw suspicious behaviour or has information about bushfires to contact Crime Stoppers. Rewards of up to $25,000 are available for information that leads to the identification and conviction of an arsonist.