No damage to property or loss of life was reported during the biggest veld fire in nine years to hit the historic Fort Schanskop at the Voortrekker Monument in Gauteng on Sunday night.

Heroic and brave acts by various firefighting associations and emergency services quickly prevented the spreading veld fire from destroying the iconic site.

Sinoville firefighting association (SBBV), Tshwane emergency services (EMS), and Fidelity Safety quickly responded to the callout to the scene.

According to EMS, a fire brigade was dispatched around 18:30.

“The fire was extinguished without any loss of life or damage to property,” says spokesperson Deputy Chief Charles Mabaso.

He adds that EMS received a call about a spreading grass fire.

“The cause of the fire has not been determined yet.”

SBBV says this is the biggest fire in nine years to hit the grounds.

“With high winds and dry grass, two of the fire trailers donated to the site were used to fight the fire.”

Danie Dreyer, head of security at the Voortrekker Monument, thanks all the role players who helped contain the fire.

“Thanks to the dozens of firefighters who were able to ensure that no damage was caused to any infrastructure at Fort Schanskop and that no one was injured during the fire.

“Also a special word of thanks to SBBV that recently donated two fire trucks which were crucial in the success of bringing the fire under control,” Dreyer says.

He says the Voortrekker Monument is not aware of any animals that have been injured.

“With a fire breaking out so suddenly, we are thankful for the community coming together and jumping in to help preserve and protect our environment,” he adds.