Out-of-control fire leads police to $3 million cannabis crop

A man has been arrested in north Queensland after a property fire led police to more than $3 million in cannabis crops.

On Friday officers from Proserpine and Whitsunday stations were called by fire crews when a blaze broke containment lines on Laurina Drive, Whitsunday, about 4.20pm.

Police searched the neighbouring property and found three large cannabis crops, including more than 270 mature plants between 1.6 to 1.8 metres tall.

A further 2.5 kilograms of cannabis was also found stashed throughout the property.

The crops are estimated to be worth more than $3 million.

A 44-year-old Strathdickie man was arrested at the scene and charged with producing a dangerous drug, possession of dangerous drugs, possession of anything using in the commission of a crime and possession of utensils.