Fire threatens Home and Away lighthouse

An out-of-control grassfire at Palm Beach, Australia, which is the TV location of fictitious Summer Bay in soap Home and Away, led to dozens of tourists and being evacuated.

The iconic Barrenjoey lighthouse was saved by volunteer firefighters, and sightseers were ordered to take refuge at the attraction while helicopters were used to water-bomb the surrounding buildings and shrub.

According to The Australian, more than 80 firefighters were sent to the scene and one was treated for minor injuries.

Sky News reports that the blaze was one of many across New South Wales.

It is not known how the fire started but RFS spokesman Ben Shepherd said 60 per cent of the Barrenjoey headland around the lighthouse was burned.

According to Digital Spy, two 14-year-olds who were fishing at the beauty spot were rescued by a police boat after fire cut access to the area.

Home and Away cast members took to Twitter to let their fans know they were safe.

Andrew Morley, who plays Spencer, wrote: "Thanks guys- all safe! Filming will still go on in Palm Beach. Unfortunately Barrenjoey headland won't be the same for many years to come.."

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