Man on murder charge over party death

Facebook pic of Jamie Devine, who was named as the victim who died after an out of control Attwell party. Source: Supplied

Police and Forensic officers investigate an out of control party at Lydon Blvd in Atwell, where one man died and others were injured. Picture: Stewart Allen Source: News Limited

A 23-YEAR-old Atwell man has been charged with murder over the death of a young Forrestdale father after a 21st birthday party in Perth's southern suburbs went horribly wrong.

The 20-year-old victim, named as Jamie Devine, had been celebrating with his family and friends at the Atwell house when an argument broke out during the early hours of Saturday.

This afternoon, police revealed Major Crime officers have charged a 23-year-old man with one count of murder and two counts of unlawful wounding.

The accused has been refused bail and will appear in Fremantle Magistrates Court tomorrow.

It is not known what caused the argument but it is understood the young man and a friend were stabbed.

It is estimated around 100 people were at the house.

Police said they were called to the Lydon Boulevard address at around 1.30am, following reports several people had been injured and a fight had spilled into a nearby street.

When officers and St John Ambulance personnel arrived they found three males had been hurt, including one seriously.

Mr Devine, who ran his own refrigeration and tree-lopping business, was taken to Fremantle hospital but died a short time later.

Two other males were also injured - a 21-year-old Atwell man remains in Royal Perth Hospital and a 22-year-old man is being treated in Fremantle Hospital.

The injuries to the two men are not believed to be life threatening.

This morning police sealed off Lydon Boulevard as forensic officers combed the area for evidence.

They also sealed off another house in nearby Dusenberg Mews where the fight spilled out to.

As officers carried out their investigation, the mother of the 21-year-old male who was injured arrived to collect some belongings.

Rachel Bowen's 21-year-old son Brodie Brouns suffered a 13cm knife wound to his arm as he tried to defend himself while trying to break up a fight.

She explained she received a call just after 2am saying her boy had been stabbed.

When she arrived she saw three ambulances, one with her son inside, another with his friend who later died.

"Brody has a 13 cm stab wound from his elbow and is getting operated tomorrow morning," she said.

"I haven't been able to speak to him about it. My daughter was there as well.

"He was a mate of my son and daughters. A father of (a two-year-old).

"It should never have happened. I had to ring my son to tell him his mate had died.

"He's gutted, he wants to get out of hospital and be with the family.

"But he can't, he has to wait to be operated on.

"As far as I heard it was a normal party, no gate crashers. They were speaking the boy who did it 10 minutes before it happened.

"All of a sudden it blew up and we still don't know why."

Ms Bowen's later spoke to her son on the phone, who told her that he needed plastic surgery for his injuries.

When asked how her son got injured, Ms Bowen said she understood he had been trying to break up another fight.

She said she did not know the young man who died but that he was a good "kid" who never did anything wrong.

"The boy that was killed doesn't go to parties, he's a good kid, it was the wrong place at the wrong time. He has a two-year-old daughter. It's affected how many families now."

Residents in Dusenberg Mews said they heard the party but weren't concerned until they heard dozens of footsteps descend into their street just before 2am.

Vanessa Farrell said at one point she thought a fight was going to break out outside her house but it stopped right next door.

"I heard a lot of swearing and a lot of get him," she said.

"There was a group of about 12 of them then another group of 12.

"They had him holed up in the alcove next door."

Mrs Farrell said she and her husband were worried they mob would turn on them.

She said they dispersed once police arrived.

A house in nearby Dusenberg Mews was also taped off by police this morning. Picture: Stewart Allen Source: News Limited

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'Shocked to my core': rape victim

CCTV showing escapee Cameron John Graham while he was on the run. Source: Supplied

THE Perth woman raped by prison escapee Cameron John Graham has revealed for the first time about her horrific experience and says her life has been "shattered on every level."

In a 1000 word essay, the stoic married mother of two children, who now lives overseas, said hearing of Graham's escape from custody last week made her furious and had brought back "terrible memories and flashbacks."

Graham, 22, was sentenced to 11 years jail for repeatedly raping the woman in her home in January 2013. The women's two children, whom Graham threatened to kill during the terrifying ordeal, were sleeping in a nearby room. Last Friday he escaped from the back of a prison van after being flown from Perth to Geraldton to be closer to his family over Christmas. Both he and another prisoner who escaped with him were recaptured last Sunday.

The woman's powerful essay in full

It's hard to describe my reaction to Friday's news of his escape, as it was a complete shock to me that this could happen and I was overwhelmed by emotions and anxiety.

I woke that morning to see an urgent email from Victims Notification Services trying to get in contact with me as they did not know I had moved away from Perth. I went straight onto the internet for further information and was confronted with a picture of my rapist and confirmation of what had occurred. I then contacted my family back in Perth.

Initially I could not understand why he was being moved and was unclear if he had been in prison in Perth or Geraldton. As the events came to light, I was more and more shocked to learn what had happened. My head was still trying to process the news that he had the opportunity to escape, then to learn he had been moved closer to his family as a Christmas privilege to a primarily medium security prison. I was completely astounded.

I was terribly upset and angered that the people responsible for detaining prisoners of this nature seemed to have no regard to the seriousness and gravity of the horrific ordeal that I endured and the risk to public. He was only a month into his sentence for committing humiliating, degrading and terrifying acts that have shattered my life on every level. I am furious knowing that this privilege was happening on taxpayers' dollars (mine included) when it's hard to even calculate what this has cost me and my family financially, not even considering the permanent and ongoing impact it has had on every aspect of my day-to-day living.

It's been almost a year since the event and I still cannot fall asleep at night alone in a room without overwhelming anxiety and the need to put the television or light on. I have regular nightmares of certain aspects of my ordeal which wake me in the middle of the night with uncontrollable feelings of fear and anxiety, often remembering how he woke me from my sleep after walking through our house, through my children's rooms while he was planning what he later forced me to do. Since hearing of his escape I have had constant anxiety and cannot be alone in the house or able to sleep without medication. It has brought back terrible memories and flashbacks and I am finding it hard to control my emotions.

I really struggle to try and describe the impact the assault has had on life for me and my family. Although I was struggling to deal with what had happened, I was determined to try and start the New Year looking forward to getting on top of my anxieties and fears, but the news of the weekend shook me to my core. Prior to him being captured, I was terrified for the public and anyone that got in his way as I know how cold, cruel and menacing he was to me, let alone what he could do with desperation and his own self-preservation in mind. I don't want to discuss anything around the event as it is too painful and disturbing for me and for my family to keep hearing. I really don't think people truly understand the ongoing trauma and impact this also has on the lives of family and friends, unless they have experienced something similar. At times I even feel guilt for the stress this has caused others.

I appreciated the fact that the Minister Joe Francis contacted my husband to explain and offer his apologies for the incident occurring; however, I did not speak to him personally because I was still tremendously upset about everything that had happened over that weekend. I do believe that someone should be accountable for allowing this to happen and I am extremely disappointed that it takes an incident like this to highlight these flawed policies that have no regard for victims or the public.

I also believe that the initial sentence he was given was very light for the horrendous crimes he committed. He has shown over and over that he will continue to commit crimes, escalating in nature and has no fear of going to prison as he kept telling me that throughout the ordeal. This recent incident proves that he has no shame or remorse for his actions and he should be in maximum security never to be moved again or given any privileges. I truly hope that he gets the maximum additional sentence the system will allow, with no parole. I will always have to live with those memories of being confined and powerless with an utterly revolting, disturbed and cowardly individual, who continually threatened the lives of my sleeping children, but there is some comfort in knowing he is locked away and not able to do this to somebody else.

Life has been extremely difficult in every way since last year. Immediately following, I could no longer reside in the dream home we had spent two years building and had to move to a small secured apartment complex which made life very difficult for our two young children who couldn't understand why they had to leave their new home.

My husband had to leave his FIFO job to be home with me and the family. I felt that I could not remain in Perth with constant reminders and the fear that his family may seek retribution for me going to the police. Overall, I feel that my independence has been lost and I cannot be alone in a house without constant fear, anxiety. Flashbacks, nightmares and trouble sleeping are a constant reminder. I have to take medication to help me cope with the gravity of it all.

It has affected my relationship with my husband and the terror of my children ever being harmed or threatened will always be at the forefront of my mind, especially knowing he was standing just a couple of feet from my four-year-old daughter and six-year-old year son while they slept.

I do have a level of inner determination not to let this affect me for the rest of my life though. I am hopeful to one day be able to return to Australia and maybe Perth without the fear and traumatic memories which are so fresh to me now. With all of the unrest my children have felt over the last year, I am very focused on ensuring they feel secure, safe and happy. I also feel very thankful that my work has been supportive and gives me a degree of satisfaction. Between the support of my work, family and friends, I am hoping to feel like a person of worth again at some point in the future.

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Perth sweats in hottest night ever

A TOTAL fire ban has been issued for Perth and surrounding areas as authorities prepare for Saturdays 44C scorcher.

PERTH has sweltered through its hottest night on record, and total fire bans are in place across the state in response to a continuing heatwave.

Temperatures in Perth peaked at more than 43C on Saturday, and dipped to a still-steamy low of 29.7C just after 3am this morning.

That beat the previous record of 29.3C in 1962. The mercury rose again to 39.7C in the city just after 9am.

More than 30 career and volunteer Fire and Rescue Service and Bush Fire Service firefighters worked overnight to put out a scrub fire near a University of Western Australia research facility at Jolimont, in the city's west.

One staff member had to be evacuated but no buildings were damaged, although some fences were destroyed.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services said about 30 hectares were burnt, but the fire was contained and under control early on Sunday.

Residents in Jolimont and Shenton Park were told to stay alert and take care when driving through the area.

The cause of the fire is being investigated.

Elsewhere, more than 100 Bush Fire Service and Department of Parks and Wildlife firefighters from Boddington, southeast of Perth, were fighting a fire near Pinjarra-Williams Road, and two hectares were burnt near Caversham Wildlife Park, north of the city.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast an extreme fire danger on Sunday for Perth, Mandurah, the Perth Hills, and parts of the Great Southern and the Upper Great Southern.

A total fire ban is in place for parts of the Midwest Gascoyne and Great Southern.

Fines up to $25,000 or jail sentences of up to 12 months apply if a total fire ban is ignored.

Perth swelters through hottest January day in 23 years

PERTH sweltered through its hottest January day in 23 years yesterday when the mercury peaked at 43.3C.

It was also the hottest day in Perth since Boxing Day 2007, when a maximum of 44.2C was recorded.

But the hottest temperature measured in the state - and, indeed, on the whole planet - was in the Mid-West town of Morawa, 370km north of Perth. The town's 500-plus residents had to contend with a searing 46.9C at 3.45pm.

The electricity grid took a pounding as residents bunkered down with their airconditioning cranked up.

Western Power said electricity demand peaked at 3733 megawatts at 4.45pm. The all-time record remains at 4028 megawatts, which was recorded two years ago.

A spokeswoman said 2000 customers were without power when it was switched off for safety reasons because of the bushfire at Jolimont.

There were a few outages elsewhere but the spokeswoman said the grid was largely trouble-free.

"Aircon", "#melting" and "#44degrees" were topics trending on Twitter, according to Trendsmap Perth.

The Department of Health said that there had been no heat-related admissions to Perth's hospitals.

The second day's play of the women's Ashes Test went ahead at the WACA with drinks breaks every 40 minutes.

Megan Schutt and Nicole Bolton from the Australian women's cricket team cool off. Source: News Limited

Players were given ice towels, Gatorade slushies and more regular ice baths.

While some sought comfort in airconditioned shopping centres, others went further.

Roiry Tipene emailed PerthNow: "My husband's idea of keeping HIMSELF cool - went and got some aircon aluminium insulation tubing, taped it around the aircon unit and jumped in, instant relief!"

Surf lifesavers were kept busy at metropolitan beaches throughout the day.

Surf Life Saving WA recorded 24 rescues, 98 first aids and 467 preventative actions.

Three children were taken to hospital with suspected spinal injuries after hitting their heads on sandbars.

More than 1000 hardy competitors completed the latest round of the Telstra triathlon series in Armadale.

Organisers put on extra aid stations and made showers and ice available to the recovering competitors.

The Bureau of Meteorology described yesterday's heat as "unexceptional".

The all-time January record is 45.8C on January 31, 1991. The record for any month is 46.2C, on February 2, 1991.

The metropolitan area is forecast to suffer a maximum of 41C today, but a sea breeze is expected to bring some respite in the afternoon.

A total fire ban remains in place for Perth and other parts of WA.

Perth Zoo has started handing out monster icy poles and other iced treats to animals to help the animals beat the heat. Picture: Perth Zoo Source: Supplied

Perth Zoo has distributed monster icy poles to its animals, with even the otters enjoying icy poles made from whitebait, blue bait, prawns and mussels.

Perth Zoo has started handing out monster icy poles and other iced treats to animals to help the animals beat the heat. Picture: Perth Zoo Source: Supplied

Even fortunate pool and spa owners were being warned to take precautions, with a reminder to ensure water was properly treated so swimmers avoid catching amoebic meningitis, which thrives in water temperatures between 28 and 40 degrees.

The scorching temperatures will arise as a pocket of very hot air, which has subjected the Pilbara to intense heat this week, begins to move south.

Onslow has suffered through two successive days over 40C, with Paraburdoo topping 40C by 9.30am on Friday.

Mike Burgin, regional director from the Bureau of Meteorology, said Saturday was likely to be Perth's hottest day since Boxing Day, 2007.

"And Perth certainly won't be the worst of it. To the north-east of the city we will get temperatures up to 46, 47 degrees,'' he said.

Ascot race meeting first casualty of heat

ASCOT'S race meeting became the first casualty of tomorrow's scorching 44C day as Perth looks for ways to beat the heat.

Perth Racing has put its hot weather contingency plan in place and moved Ascot's scheduled Saturday race meeting to Sunday.

Race times for the Ascot meeting have been revised and entry to the racecourse on Sunday will be free.

The meeting will be broadcast on SKY Racing 1, while Geraldton's race meeting, also on Sunday, will now be shown on SKY Racing 2.

Surf Life Saving WA has warned beachgoers to take extra care. Source: News Limited

Take care on Perth beaches

As the mercury climbs tomorrow, Surf Life Saving WA expects beaches to be packed and is urging people to take extra care.

It has been a busy start to the Surf Life Saving season since patrols began in October, with 696 rescues, 1207 first-aid treatments and an additional 5827 actions taken to prevent incidents.

There have also been four coastal drowning deaths at unpatrolled spots.

Surf Life Saving WA community safety manager Chris Peck said it was crucial that beach-goers swam between the red and yellow flags, and followed the advice of lifesavers.

He said people also needed to be "beach safe'' by supervising children, having aquatic skills, knowing first aid and CPR, and using appropriate safety gear and planning for emergencies.

"It is also vital that in hot conditions beach-goers regularly apply sunscreen, keep hydrated and remember that consumption of alcohol impairs physical responses and decision-making processes, and anyone that has consumed alcohol should not enter the water,'' Mr Peck said.

All major Perth beaches will be patrolled by Surf Life Saving services and Wesfarmers Lifesaver Jet-Ski teams over the weekend, as well as aerial surveillance between Yanchep and Mandurah by the Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter.

Sunday won't provide much relief, with an expected top of 39C but the weather shapes up nicely from Monday with expected tops in the low 30 for the first half of the week.

The beach is expected to be a popular place as Perth tries to beat the heat tomorrow.

Back-to-back 48C days for Onslow

IT didn't quite reach 50C yesterday but it's unlikely the good folk of Learmonth and Onslow really noticed the difference as the mercury maxed at over 48C.

The Pilbara's mega heatwave continued yesterday - at Onslow Airport, almost 1400km north of Perth, the temperature reached 48.2C at about 12.30pm.

Learmonth Airport, near Exmouth and about 1250km north of Perth, was fractionally behind, recording a high of 48.1 just before 2.30pm.

The Bureau of Meteorology has been unable to obtain information from Emu Creek, where it was forecast to reach 49C and possibly threaten 50C.

Onslow has roasted through two of its hottest days on record, with temperatures soaring to 48.7C yesterday, closely followed by today's 48.2C.

Today, Learmonth had the highest maximum in the Pilbara, peaking at 46.9C just after 2.30pm, while the mercury reach 45C in Paraburdoo.

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Man critical after being set alight

Police are investigating a case where a 20-year-old man was set alight in Cannington early this morning and suffered burns to about 40 per cent of his body. Source: News Limited

POLICE are investigating a case where a 20-year-old man was set alight during a fight in Cannington early this morning and suffered burns to about 40 per cent of his body.

The victim, from East Cannington, is in Royal Perth Hospital in a critical but stable condition. He was burnt on his legs and abdomen, with minor burns to his face.

Police believe the incident occurred around Mallard Road and Hamilton Street in Cannington between 4am and 4.30am.

Kensington Detectives officer-in-charge Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Jamieson said the victim was out walking and was approached by five dark-skinned males, a police spokesman said.

He said during the altercation it is believed some form of accelerant was poured or sprayed onto the victim and he was set alight.

The man showed up at Cannington Police Station about 4.30am and collapsed. An ambulance was called and the man was taken to Royal Perth Hospital.

The police station was closed after the incident, but has been reopened this afternoon.

One of the offenders is described as 18 to 25 years old, about 175cm tall, of slim build and was wearing black and red basketball shorts and no shirt.

The victim is described as fair-skinned and at the time of the incident he was wearing black jeans or shorts, white sneakers and a black singlet. He was shirtless when he arrived at the police station as he had taken it off as he put out the fire.

Detectives want to speak to anyone who saw the victim or offenders in the area this morning.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Man dies in Perth bushfire

Reports at least 12 homes have been destroyed and others damaged by a fire raging through Perth's hills.

What started as a scrub fire in Jolimont came dangerously close to homes.

The fire travelling north on Alice St with Mt Helena to the east. Picture: Alan Collins/Twitter Source: Supplied

Water bomber reloads with water battling the Parkerville blaze. Picture: Kristy Goodchild/Facebook Source: Supplied

A fire is burning in the Perth Hills which has caused evacuations and loss of property. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: News Limited

A 62-YEAR-OLD man died and at least 27 homes were destroyed in a raging bushfire in Perth's Hills.

Dozens of families were evacuated to two makeshift centres overnight - many not knowing if their homes still stood.

More than 100 firefighters battled the blaze on land and by air.

Last night, the fire alert had been downgraded to a watch and act level, with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services saying the blaze was contained, but not under control.

Out of control blaze in John Forrest National Park

Facebook page set up to help fire victims

Residents wait and worry to find out about their homes

Bushfire in Baldivis

In one area of Stoneville, including Grenville Road, Ayers Road and Narla Retreat, 18 homes were reportedly lost to the flames. It was also reported that six homes along Richardson Road in Parkerville had been razed.

DFES confirmed at a community meeting in Swan View tonight that 27 homes had been destroyed. Specific streets where homes were gutted have not been revealed by officials.

But that number is expected to rise as assessments of the fire zone continue overnight and tomorrow.

The cause of the blaze is unknown. However, speculation among locals centres on a fallen power pole.

A fire in Stoneville has led to evacuations and loss of property. Picture: Jackson Flindell

Another community meeting will be held at 10am tomorrow.

Heroic stories have started to emerge from the fire zone, with one man trying to save four houses by himself. When PerthNow found him he was still trying to extinguish burning stumps with a bucket of water.

The man, Sam, used a bucket to fill with water and put out spot fires as he saw them.

He was using a 20L bucket and going back and forth from the neighbour's pool to put out the fires.

A fire in Stoneville has led to evacuations and loss of property. Picture: Jackson Flindell

A family of six who lost their Stoneville home said authorities were incredibly helpful.

"We know they did everything they could have," Symone said.

Some people who tried to fight their houses couldn't because there wasn't enough water pressure.

Deborah told PerthNow the fire was "bigger than any of us thought it was going to be."

"It's unfortunate that some of us have just lost our houses," she said.

Deborah and her family have lived in Stoneville since 2008 and said she had never seen anything like this fire.

A fire in Stoneville has led to evacuations and loss of property. Picture: Jackson Flindell

Other residents told PerthNow the wind was going in every direction as they fled their homes.

They heard of neighbours using water from spas to try and protect their homes.

Bert said he worked to save his house.

"The brigade let me in once they thought it was safe," he said.

Sawyers Valley resident Joy Smith told PerthNow how she and her husband helped evacuate collector's cars to the local oval.

She said she had heard of a son's friend - a 25-year-old first homebuyer - who was one of 18 Stoneville residents confirmed to have lost their houses today.

West Coast Waves captain Melissa Marsh tweeted that her team-mate Shani Amos had lost her family home in the fire.

At 12.51pm, St John Ambulance officers were called to a Hovea house where a man had collapsed on his roof. He had reportedly been trying to defend his home from the fire.

"St John responded to the incident but was unable to access the roof. Despite assistance from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services in getting onto the roof, the man passed away at the scene," a SJA spokesman said.

It is not known whether the man's death, which Seven News reported was a suspected heart attack, was fire-related.

A minute later, a man fell through the roof of a house in Stoneville and was taken to Royal Perth Hospital. The 52-year-old man is in a serious but stable condition.

A fire in Stoneville has led to evacuations and loss of property. A resident on Ayres Road discovers the house has been burnt down. Picture: Jackson Flindell

Flames were 20m high in the unpredictable and fast-moving blaze in Parkerville, which was first reported at 11am. Unpredictable winds hampered efforts to control the blaze.

Dozens of people are waiting and wondering if their homes are still standing, as the initial emergency evacuation at Mundaring Recreation Centre reached capacity quickly.

This prompted another to be set up at Brown Park in Swan View.

Last night, the Mundaring centre was closed with everyone relocated to Brown Park.

DFES was still reviewing numbers at Brown Park, which most people were using to rest, gather themselves and get some food.

Just after 9pm tonight, the crowd at Brown Park was getting thin and it remained unclear how many people would be staying there overnight. Air mattresses and trundle beds were made available.

A fire is burning in the Perth Hills which has caused evacuations and loss of property. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: News Limited

SJA attended a small number of fire-related callouts in the Perth Hills today. Two first aid crews, a paramedic crew, and an emergency management unit vehicle have been sent to provide first aid and support in Parkerville.

At 12.17pm, St John attended to a 74-year-old man in Pickering Brook who was complaining of chest pains. The man was taken to RPH, where he was last night in a stable condition.

St John will continue to operate a first aid post from both Parkerville and also Baldivis, where another bushfire has been contained.

An area manager has been stationed at the command centre in Parkerville and a manager, metropolitan operations has been stationed in Baldivis.

Firefighters battle the devastating blaze in Perth Hills. Picture: DFES Source: Supplied

Another fire has started in the John Forrest National Park, with parts of Swan View being evacuated.

Nine News reporter Kelly Williams said there was speculation that the Stoneville shops had gone up in flames.

The fire started between Jonhston Road and Granite Road, it has crossed Stoneville Road near Riley Road and is now burning towards Mount Helena and Chidlow.

A fire is burning in the Perth Hills which has caused evacuations and loss of property. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: News Limited

People in Mount Helena who live west of Alice Rd and Sawyers Rd are not safe to leave.

It is safe to leave in the northern part of Mundaring and Mt Helena.

In total, more than 350 firefighters and personnel from other agencies responded to the fire. Aerial support was provided to crews on the ground during the day and will continue at first light tomorrow if needed.

Texts and voice messages have been issued to residents in Parkerville, Stoneville and Mount Helena. The cause of the fire is unknown.

At least two firefighters have been treated for heat exhaustion.

More than 650 hectares had been burnt.

It's also believed the wind is picking up in the area. It has also been reported that waterbombers have been used to save a number of properties.

A Western Power spokeswoman said 1000 homes in the fire zone are without power and they will be waiting quite awhile to be reconnected.

DFES says the bushfire is moving fast in a north easterly direction, with burning embers likely to be blown around homes. Spot fires are starting up to 3.5km ahead of the fire.

If anyone in the Parkerville bushfire needs a place for their horses or livestock CLAN Midland Inc have yards and paddocks available in Grass Valley, east of Northam. Anyone who needs help can call 0423 091 289.

A fire is burning in the Perth Hills which has caused evacuations and loss of property. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: News Limited

Mundaring Shire president Helen Dullard told PerthNow she believed about 80 people were at the evacuation centre.

"I don't know how many homes are on fire or to what extent and I don't know how many people have chosen to stay and defend, but what I do know is that this is a very serious fire and the wind is changing and swirling all over the place and making things very difficult," she said.

Ms Dullard said there was bound to be devastated and heartbroken residents as a result of this fire, but noted that firefighters were prepared for this kind of emergency and had extensive back-up from other brigades. She said information was being broadcast on a constant basis, which was a huge help.

Firefighters battle the devastating blaze in Perth Hills. Picture: DFES Source: Supplied

Ms Dullard said people had brought their pets and animals to the centre and were looking for foster carers with the Shire Pound helping as much as possible.

She said they were setting up to have people staying in emergency conditions for days, with Salvation Army volunteers on hand.

"We have got food and accommodation well taken care of, and there will be people staying overnight and not just one night,'' Ms Dullard said.

A fire is burning in the Perth Hills which has caused evacuations and loss of property Source: News Limited

"But we are still in an emergency stage.

"Some are finding out by friends, and because their friends' houses have gone, then theirs has gone. Some aren't sure.

"They are anxious to get home as soon as they can, but are having to wait and that is very difficult for them.''

The blaze in the hills is the worst in a horror day for WA fire authorities, who battled fires in Wanneroo, Boddington, Denmark, Gosnells, Shark Bay and a major fire in Baldivis.

The fires came after two successive days of 40-degree heat in Perth, and an oppressive heatwave in the northern part of the state all week.

This is the latest devastating blaze in WA in the past several years. In Dec 2009, 38 homes in Toodyay were destroyed by fire, while in February 2011 71 homes were lost in Roleystone and Kelmscott. In November 2011, a fire destroyed some 50 properties in Margaret River.

For updated information people can call DFES on 1300 657 209.

Reports of suspicious behaviour can be made to CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.

Where to go:

The Department for Child Protection and Family Support has also set up a temporary evacuation centre at Mundaring Recreation Ground on Mundaring Weir Road.

The recreation centre is now at capacity, people are asked to go to Brown Park in Swan View on the corner of Amherst and Salisbury Roads.

What to do:

If the way is clear, leave now for a safer place.

Do not wait and see, leaving at the last minute is deadly.

There is ember attack ahead of the fire, so close all doors and windows, and turn off evaporative air conditioners, but keep water running through the system if possible.

The Perth Hills fire is continuing to rage, with dozens of firefighters battling the blaze and two evacuation centres set up. Picture: Justin Benson-Cooper Source: News Limited

If your plan is to stay and actively defend, do not rely on mains water pressure as it may be affected. If you have access to a water tank and plan to defend your home, start patrolling with your hose and put out spot fires.

If you cannot leave, you need to get ready to shelter in your home and actively defend it.

If you are not at home, it is too dangerous now to return.

Safest place:

Your safest option may be to visit family or friends who live away from the area.

The Department for Child Protection and Family Support has also set up a temporary evacuation centre at Brown Park in Swan View on the corner of Amherst Road and Salisbury Road.

A fire is burning in the Perth Hills which has caused evacuations and loss of property Source: News Limited

Road closures:

Avoid the area and be aware of fire and other emergency services personnel working on site.

A number of roads have been closed including:

- Stoneville Road from Jarrah Road to Grenville Road

For further details contact Main Roads WA on 138 138 or visit www.mainroads.wa.gov.au

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Teen mental ills double

THE number of teenagers seeking treatment at hospital emergency departments for mental health issues has more than doubled in five years.

Health Department data obtained by The Sunday Times show 4674 such presentations (for 13 to 17-year-olds) in 2012-13 - 2373 more than in 2008-09.

The number of teenagers who spent the night in a specialised mental health hospital bed also increased substantially over the same five-year period, from 410 to 778.

The alarming numbers come after The Sunday Times revealed last week that suicide had overtaken car accidents and illness as the most common cause of unexpected death among WA teenagers.

It also comes as a not-for-profit service providing healthcare to almost 1000 Peel teenagers is facing closure.

WA has just 20 dedicated adolescent psychiatric beds - eight at Princess Margaret Hospital and 12 at the Bentley Adolescent Unit.

Opposition health spokesman Roger Cook said the increase in presentations was "truly alarming".

"These figures show that there has been a 30 per cent increase between 2011-12 and 2012-13 in young people presenting to EDs with a mental health issue," he said.

"At the same time that we are seeing these dramatic increases in children with mental health problems, the Barnett Government is spending $1.2 billion on a new children's hospital that will only provide another eight mental health beds"

But Mental Health Minister Helen Morton said "the mix of increased community capacity, plus the youth-specific places at the new hospitals being built, plus the 20 beds at PMH will meet demand".

"All the evidence we have collated indicates that the solution to increasing presentations to emergency departments is ensuring we have additional child, adolescent and youth specialist services in the community, increased capacity of community-based support organisations - and additional child and adolescent beds and youth specific beds," she said.

Peel Youth Medical Service, which has been providing free consultations for 12 to 25-year-olds, fears closure after GP Down South had its funding cut as a result of the introduction of the Medicare Locals.

The service, which has 938 active patients, 38 per cent suffering mental ill-health, had its suicide prevention strategy funds cut in October last year.

Lifeline 13 11 14, Kids Help Line 1800 55 1800

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Man arrested after young dad dies at party

Police and Forensic officers investigate an out of control party at Lydon Blvd in Atwell, where one man died and others were injured. Picture: Stewart Allen Source: News Limited

A YOUNG Forrestdale father has died after a 21st birthday party in Perth's southern suburbs went horribly wrong.

The 20-year-old had been celebrating with his family and friends at the Atwell house when an argument broke out during the early hours of Saturday.

Late today, a 23-year-old man was taken into custody and is assisting WA Police with the investigation.

It is not known what caused the argument but it is understood the young man and a friend were stabbed.

It is estimated around 100 people were at the house.

Police said they were called to the Lydon Boulevard address at around 1.30am, following reports several people had been injured and a fight had spilled into a nearby street.

When officers and St John Ambulance personnel arrived they found three males had been hurt, including one seriously.

The 20-year-old male was taken to Fremantle hospital but died a short time later.

Two other males were also injured - a 21-year-old Atwell man remains in Royal Perth Hospital and a 22-year-old man is being treated in Fremantle Hospital.

The injuries to the two men are not believed to be life threatening.

This morning police sealed off Lydon Boulevard as forensic officers combed the area for evidence.

They also sealed off another house in nearby Dusenberg Mews where the fight spilled out to.

As officers carried out their investigation, the mother of the 21-year-old male who was injured arrived to collect some belongings.

Rachel Bowen's 21-year-old son Brodie Brouns suffered a 13cm knife wound to his arm as he tried to defend himself while trying to break up a fight.

She explained she received a call just after 2am saying her boy had been stabbed.

When she arrived she saw three ambulances, one with her son inside, another with his friend who later died.

"Brody has a 13 cm stab wound from his elbow and is getting operated tomorrow morning," she said.

"I haven't been able to speak to him about it. My daughter was there as well.

"He was a mate of my son and daughters. A father of (a two-year-old).

"It should never have happened. I had to ring my son to tell him his mate had died.

"He's gutted, he wants to get out of hospital and be with the family.

"But he can't, he has to wait to be operated on.

"As far as I heard it was a normal party, no gate crashers. They were speaking the boy who did it 10 minutes before it happened.

"All of a sudden it blew up and we still don't know why."

Ms Bowen's later spoke to her son on the phone, who told her that he needed plastic surgery for his injuries.

When asked how her son got injured, Ms Bowen said she understood he had been trying to break up another fight.

She said she did not know the young man who died but that he was a good "kid" who never did anything wrong.

"The boy that was killed doesn't go to parties, he's a good kid, it was the wrong place at the wrong time. He has a two-year-old daughter. It's affected how many families now."

Residents in Dusenberg Mews said they heard the party but weren't concerned until they heard dozens of footsteps descend into their street just before 2am.

Vanessa Farrell said at one point she thought a fight was going to break out outside her house but it stopped right next door.

"I heard a lot of swearing and a lot of get him," she said.

"There was a group of about 12 of them then another group of 12.

"They had him holed up in the alcove next door."

Mrs Farrell said she and her husband were worried they mob would turn on them.

She said they dispersed once police arrived.

A house in nearby Dusenberg Mews was also taped off by police this morning. Picture: Stewart Allen Source: News Limited

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Rural drugs alarm: hospitals fail audit

Addictive drugs including oxycodone and morphine are at danger of falling into the wrong hands, according to a new health report. Picture: file image Source: Supplied

ADDICTIVE drugs including oxycodone and morphine were in danger of falling into the wrong hands "undetected" because of poor record-keeping in WA's rural health service, an internal review shows.

The Sunday Times can also reveal other drugs were being kept in an unlocked cupboard, some were being poured down the sink and inaccurate notes were kept on patient records.

An internal audit, obtained under Freedom of Information laws, shows that Schedule 4R and Schedule 8 drugs were still being inadequately controlled by the WA Country Health Service two years after a damn¬ing report alleging drug abuse, theft, and misconduct across WA Health.

Opposition health spokesman Roger Cook said it was clear the Health Department was unable to manage hospital medicines properly.

"The Minister has a responsibility to ensure that better security measures are put in place to safeguard these drugs in case the drugs are abused," he said.

A Corruption and Crime Commission review into the handling of drugs by the Health Department was tabled in Parliament in 2010.

The report contained shocking allegations including drug theft, cover-ups and incidences of saline solution being substituted for restricted drugs. A subsequent audit of four WA Country Health Service hospital wards and pharmacies was conducted by the Health Department's internal audit division in 2012.

The audit, obtained by The Sunday Times, identified several "weaknesses" in the storage of S4R (clonazepam, midazolam, tramadol) and S8 (methadone, morphine, oxycodone) drugs by WACHS, and potential noncompliance with poisons regulations.

These drugs are considered to be at "high risk" of unexplained loss or misconduct.

"Audit observed that the S4R drug cupboard in the Bunbury Regional Hospital Pharmacy was left unlocked when not in use and when deliverymen were present even though (WA Health) Operational Directive 215/09 explicitly states secure storage areas must be 'kept locked when not in immediate use'," the report said.

It noted drugs disposed of by "pouring them down a sink" - a potential breach of poisons regulations - and inaccurate recording of drug transfers and usage.

WACHS acting chief executive Melissa Vernon said all the issues in the review had since been addressed.

"We have new policies and protocols to identify report and monitor any discrepancies in storage, handling and dispensing of these medications," Ms Vernon said.

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City sweats in 43.1C, bush tops planet

A TOTAL fire ban has been issued for Perth and surrounding areas as authorities prepare for Saturdays 44C scorcher.

PERTH sweltered through its hottest January day in 23 years yesterday when the mercury peaked at 43.3C.

It was also the hottest day in Perth since Boxing Day 2007, when a maximum of 44.2C was recorded.

But the hottest temperature measured in the state - and, indeed, on the whole planet - was in the Mid-West town of Morowa, 370km north of Perth. The town's 500-plus residents had to contend with a searing 46.9C at 3.45pm.

The electricity grid took a pounding as residents bunkered down with their airconditioning cranked up.

Western Power said electricity demand peaked at 3733 megawatts at 4.45pm. The all-time record remains at 4028 megawatts, which was recorded two years ago.

A spokeswoman said 2000 customers were without power when it was switched off for safety reasons because of the bushfire at Jolimont.

There were a few outages elsewhere but the spokeswoman said the grid was largely trouble-free.

"Aircon", "#melting" and "#44degrees" were topics trending on Twitter, according to Trendsmap Perth.

The Department of Health said that there had been no heat-related admissions to Perth's hospitals.

The second day's play of the women's Ashes Test went ahead at the WACA with drinks breaks every 40 minutes.

Megan Schutt and Nicole Bolton from the Australian women's cricket team cool off. Source: News Limited

Players were given ice towels, Gatorade slushies and more regular ice baths.

While some sought comfort in airconditioned shopping centres, others went further.

Roiry Tipene emailed PerthNow: "My husband's idea of keeping HIMSELF cool - went and got some aircon aluminium insulation tubing, taped it around the aircon unit and jumped in, instant relief!"

Surf lifesavers were kept busy at metropolitan beaches throughout the day.

Surf Life Saving WA recorded 24 rescues, 98 first aids and 467 preventative actions.

Three children were taken to hospital with suspected spinal injuries after hitting their heads on sandbars.

More than 1000 hardy competitors completed the latest round of the Telstra triathlon series in Armadale.

Organisers put on extra aid stations and made showers and ice available to the recovering competitors.

The Bureau of Meteorology described yesterday's heat as "unexceptional".

The all-time January record is 45.8C on January 31, 1991. The record for any month is 46.2C, on February 2, 1991.

The metropolitan area is forecast to suffer a maximum of 41C today, but a sea breeze is expected to bring some respite in the afternoon.

A total fire ban remains in place for Perth and other parts of WA.

Perth Zoo has started handing out monster icy poles and other iced treats to animals to help the animals beat the heat. Picture: Perth Zoo Source: Supplied

Perth Zoo has distributed monster icy poles to its animals, with even the otters enjoying icy poles made from whitebait, blue bait, prawns and mussels.

Perth Zoo has started handing out monster icy poles and other iced treats to animals to help the animals beat the heat. Picture: Perth Zoo Source: Supplied

Even fortunate pool and spa owners were being warned to take precautions, with a reminder to ensure water was properly treated so swimmers avoid catching amoebic meningitis, which thrives in water temperatures between 28 and 40 degrees.

The scorching temperatures will arise as a pocket of very hot air, which has subjected the Pilbara to intense heat this week, begins to move south.

Onslow has suffered through two successive days over 40C, with Paraburdoo topping 40C by 9.30am on Friday.

Mike Burgin, regional director from the Bureau of Meteorology, said Saturday was likely to be Perth's hottest day since Boxing Day, 2007.

"And Perth certainly won't be the worst of it. To the north-east of the city we will get temperatures up to 46, 47 degrees,'' he said.

Ascot race meeting first casualty of heat

ASCOT'S race meeting became the first casualty of tomorrow's scorching 44C day as Perth looks for ways to beat the heat.

Perth Racing has put its hot weather contingency plan in place and moved Ascot's scheduled Saturday race meeting to Sunday.

Race times for the Ascot meeting have been revised and entry to the racecourse on Sunday will be free.

The meeting will be broadcast on SKY Racing 1, while Geraldton's race meeting, also on Sunday, will now be shown on SKY Racing 2.

Surf Life Saving WA has warned beachgoers to take extra care. Source: News Limited

Take care on Perth beaches

As the mercury climbs tomorrow, Surf Life Saving WA expects beaches to be packed and is urging people to take extra care.

It has been a busy start to the Surf Life Saving season since patrols began in October, with 696 rescues, 1207 first-aid treatments and an additional 5827 actions taken to prevent incidents.

There have also been four coastal drowning deaths at unpatrolled spots.

Surf Life Saving WA community safety manager Chris Peck said it was crucial that beach-goers swam between the red and yellow flags, and followed the advice of lifesavers.

He said people also needed to be "beach safe'' by supervising children, having aquatic skills, knowing first aid and CPR, and using appropriate safety gear and planning for emergencies.

"It is also vital that in hot conditions beach-goers regularly apply sunscreen, keep hydrated and remember that consumption of alcohol impairs physical responses and decision-making processes, and anyone that has consumed alcohol should not enter the water,'' Mr Peck said.

All major Perth beaches will be patrolled by Surf Life Saving services and Wesfarmers Lifesaver Jet-Ski teams over the weekend, as well as aerial surveillance between Yanchep and Mandurah by the Westpac Lifesaver Helicopter.

Sunday won't provide much relief, with an expected top of 39C but the weather shapes up nicely from Monday with expected tops in the low 30 for the first half of the week.

The beach is expected to be a popular place as Perth tries to beat the heat tomorrow.

Back-to-back 48C days for Onslow

IT didn't quite reach 50C yesterday but it's unlikely the good folk of Learmonth and Onslow really noticed the difference as the mercury maxed at over 48C.

The Pilbara's mega heatwave continued yesterday - at Onslow Airport, almost 1400km north of Perth, the temperature reached 48.2C at about 12.30pm.

Learmonth Airport, near Exmouth and about 1250km north of Perth, was fractionally behind, recording a high of 48.1 just before 2.30pm.

The Bureau of Meteorology has been unable to obtain information from Emu Creek, where it was forecast to reach 49C and possibly threaten 50C.

Onslow has roasted through two of its hottest days on record, with temperatures soaring to 48.7C yesterday, closely followed by today's 48.2C.

Today, Learmonth had the highest maximum in the Pilbara, peaking at 46.9C just after 2.30pm, while the mercury reach 45C in Paraburdoo.

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'Shocked to my core': escaped rapist's victim

CCTV showing escapee Cameron John Graham while he was on the run. Source: Supplied

THE Perth woman raped by prison escapee Cameron John Graham has revealed for the first time about her horrific experience and says her life has been "shattered on every level."

In a 1000 word essay, the stoic married mother of two children, who now lives overseas, said hearing of Graham's escape from custody last week made her furious and had brought back "terrible memories and flashbacks."

Graham, 22, was sentenced to 11 years jail for repeatedly raping the woman in her Beeliar home in January 2013. The women's two children, whom Graham threatened to kill during the terrifying ordeal, were sleeping in a nearby room. Last Friday he escaped from the back of a prison van after being flown from Perth to Geraldton to be closer to his family over Christmas. Both he and another prisoner who escaped with him were recaptured last Sunday.

The woman's powerful essay in full

It's hard to describe my reaction to Friday's news of his escape, as it was a complete shock to me that this could happen and I was overwhelmed by emotions and anxiety.

I woke that morning to see an urgent email from Victims Notification Services trying to get in contact with me as they did not know I had moved away from Perth. I went straight onto the internet for further information and was confronted with a picture of my rapist and confirmation of what had occurred. I then contacted my family back in Perth.

Initially I could not understand why he was being moved and was unclear if he had been in prison in Perth or Geraldton. As the events came to light, I was more and more shocked to learn what had happened. My head was still trying to process the news that he had the opportunity to escape, then to learn he had been moved closer to his family as a Christmas privilege to a primarily medium security prison. I was completely astounded.

I was terribly upset and angered that the people responsible for detaining prisoners of this nature seemed to have no regard to the seriousness and gravity of the horrific ordeal that I endured and the risk to public. He was only a month into his sentence for committing humiliating, degrading and terrifying acts that have shattered my life on every level. I am furious knowing that this privilege was happening on taxpayers' dollars (mine included) when it's hard to even calculate what this has cost me and my family financially, not even considering the permanent and ongoing impact it has had on every aspect of my day-to-day living.

It's been almost a year since the event and I still cannot fall asleep at night alone in a room without overwhelming anxiety and the need to put the television or light on. I have regular nightmares of certain aspects of my ordeal which wake me in the middle of the night with uncontrollable feelings of fear and anxiety, often remembering how he woke me from my sleep after walking through our house, through my children's rooms while he was planning what he later forced me to do. Since hearing of his escape I have had constant anxiety and cannot be alone in the house or able to sleep without medication. It has brought back terrible memories and flashbacks and I am finding it hard to control my emotions.

I really struggle to try and describe the impact the assault has had on life for me and my family. Although I was struggling to deal with what had happened, I was determined to try and start the New Year looking forward to getting on top of my anxieties and fears, but the news of the weekend shook me to my core. Prior to him being captured, I was terrified for the public and anyone that got in his way as I know how cold, cruel and menacing he was to me, let alone what he could do with desperation and his own self-preservation in mind. I don't want to discuss anything around the event as it is too painful and disturbing for me and for my family to keep hearing. I really don't think people truly understand the ongoing trauma and impact this also has on the lives of family and friends, unless they have experienced something similar. At times I even feel guilt for the stress this has caused others.

I appreciated the fact that the Minister Joe Francis contacted my husband to explain and offer his apologies for the incident occurring; however, I did not speak to him personally because I was still tremendously upset about everything that had happened over that weekend. I do believe that someone should be accountable for allowing this to happen and I am extremely disappointed that it takes an incident like this to highlight these flawed policies that have no regard for victims or the public.

I also believe that the initial sentence he was given was very light for the horrendous crimes he committed. He has shown over and over that he will continue to commit crimes, escalating in nature and has no fear of going to prison as he kept telling me that throughout the ordeal. This recent incident proves that he has no shame or remorse for his actions and he should be in maximum security never to be moved again or given any privileges. I truly hope that he gets the maximum additional sentence the system will allow, with no parole. I will always have to live with those memories of being confined and powerless with an utterly revolting, disturbed and cowardly individual, who continually threatened the lives of my sleeping children, but there is some comfort in knowing he is locked away and not able to do this to somebody else.

Life has been extremely difficult in every way since last year. Immediately following, I could no longer reside in the dream home we had spent two years building and had to move to a small secured apartment complex which made life very difficult for our two young children who couldn't understand why they had to leave their new home.

My husband had to leave his FIFO job to be home with me and the family. I felt that I could not remain in Perth with constant reminders and the fear that his family may seek retribution for me going to the police. Overall, I feel that my independence has been lost and I cannot be alone in a house without constant fear, anxiety. Flashbacks, nightmares and trouble sleeping are a constant reminder. I have to take medication to help me cope with the gravity of it all.

It has affected my relationship with my husband and the terror of my children ever being harmed or threatened will always be at the forefront of my mind, especially knowing he was standing just a couple of feet from my four-year-old daughter and six-year-old year son while they slept.

I do have a level of inner determination not to let this affect me for the rest of my life though. I am hopeful to one day be able to return to Australia and maybe Perth without the fear and traumatic memories which are so fresh to me now. With all of the unrest my children have felt over the last year, I am very focused on ensuring they feel secure, safe and happy. I also feel very thankful that my work has been supportive and gives me a degree of satisfaction. Between the support of my work, family and friends, I am hoping to feel like a person of worth again at some point in the future.

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