Lincoln Berkley Thomas: Accused Rudds Gully fire starter in Graylands Hospital after schizophrenic episode

A man who allegedly lit several fires on his Rudds Gully property during a total fire ban and let them get out of control had a relapse of schizophrenia, a court has been told. Lincoln Berkley Thomas, 47, appeared in the Geraldton Magistrates Court via video link from Frankland Centre at Graylands Hospital on Thursday. He is yet to enter pleas for failing to reasonably ensure that a fire would not cause a fire that could not be controlled, obstructing public officers, assault public officer and disorderly behaviour in a police station. Defence counsel Eva Svanberg said Mr Thomas’ Legal Aid application had not been assessed and he was seeking an adjournment so it could be approved. Magistrate Matthew Walton read a report that noted Mr Thomas had a relapse of schizophrenia and his mental health was expected to improve. The matter was adjourned until Thursday, March 7 and bail was not considered. The court was previously told Mr Thomas allegedly lit fires on the side of his semi-rural property during a total fire ban on December 16 when the blaze picked up and spread to nearby bushland, moving towards the suburb of Wandina. It is alleged residents noticed the blaze and contacted emergency services. A witness rushed over and attempted to fight the fire. When police arrived, the court was told Mr Thomas allegedly hit a police officer in the face.