Two 11-year-old boys have been charged with Breach of Duty over a devastating bushfire in Spalding, a coastal suburb of Geraldton, Western Australia, which damaged properties and destroyed a home.

Four juveniles were identified in the investigation, with two 11-year-olds charged after being referred to the Juvenile Justice Team.

Police are seeking information about the bushfires or suspicious behavior, offering rewards of up to $25,000 for tips leading to arsonist identification and conviction via Crime Stoppers.

A GoFundMe page was launched to support Nic Morgan and Lyn Bartlett, whose home was destroyed, with their pet cat Smudge reported as a fatality.

Goodstart Early Learning Wonthella organized a fundraiser to help Gail and her daughter replace essential items and secure safe accommodation after their home was severely damaged.

Police allege the fire was started by the two 11-year-olds on November 28, with the blaze spreading to bushland and reigniting the next day as strong easterly winds reached up to 80 km/h.

The blaze threatened lives and hundreds of properties in Geraldton’s northern suburbs, triggering evacuations, school closures, and power outages until firefighters contained it.

Authorities warned that lighting fires is extremely dangerous and can put lives and property at risk, while thanking DFES crews, volunteers, and the Geraldton community for their support.