"The smoke plume of that fire extended some 14km (8.6 miles) into the air and even prevented us from getting aircraft overhead because of just how dangerous and bumpy the conditions were, " RFS Deputy Commissioner Rob Rogers was quoted by ABC News as saying.

BBC: News - Australia bushfire destroys homes and damages observatory

Another one executes a terrifying circle in the air before resuming its upward flight, a plume of smoke and fire thundering out behind it.

FORBES: "Let's Punch A Hole In the Sky"