A house in Cameron Crescent in East Bairnsdale went up in flames on Easter Sunday.

The sole occupant of the house, a man in his early 30s, managed to escape unharmed as five fire units battled to bring the fire under control.

The fire started at about 11.30am and quickly spread through the fibro cement house, although firemen were able to save the two front bedrooms.

Police said the fire is non suspicious. The occupant reportedly informed authorities he accidentally started the fire while trying to light a bong with a piece of newspaper from the stove.

The Bairnsdale CFA says it’s in the process of concluding the investigation.

The house, which is gutted, contains asbestos.

IMAGE: Residents in East Bairnsdale observed smoke emanating from this house in Cameron Crescent which was gutted by fire on Easter Sunday. K275-5771