Settled weather brings relief as firefight continues
Pomonal fire. Photo: Buninyong-Mount Helen Fire Brigade
Hundreds of members continue to fight fires that broke out across Victoria on Tuesday as the state battled some of the worst conditions since the 2019-20 season.
Settled weather into the weekend is expected to allow firefighters to get the upper hand on the largest blazes which occurred to the north and south of the Grampians, where hundreds of members continue to work on the ground alongside our partner emergency services.
Firefighters have been able to slow the spread of the Bellfield fire due to cooler and more humid conditions. The fire impacted the townships of Bellfield, Halls Gap, Lake Fyans and Pomonal, burning approximately 2,223 hectares, with at least 44 homes and one commercial property confirmed lost.
Crews are now focusing on tracking edges in grasslands, spot fires, asset protection, hazardous tree assessment and road access. Freshening southerly winds expected Friday (16 February) in the afternoon and evening may increase fire activity in the Grampians, particularly in terrain.
Five members from Eureka Group Strike Team who were involved in a burnover while fighting the blaze have shared how their training helped save their lives after a sudden wind change pushed a wall of fire their way. You can read their story here
Meanwhile, a second fire at Mount Stapylton to the north of the Grampians threatened nearby communities, including Dadswells Bridge and Glenorchy. The fire has burned approximately 4,431 hectares, with one home confirmed lost. Cooler, and more settled, conditions on Wednesday led to a dramatic decrease in fire behaviour.
At the time of writing, Advice warnings remained in place for Northern Grampians and Dadswells Bridge, and Lake Fyans, Pomonal, Bellfield and Halls Gap.
Chief Officer Jason Heffernan thanked members for their efforts in responding to the blazes.
"This has been an extremely challenging few days for Victorian communities and once again our members have bravely stood ready to protect lives and property,” Jason said.
“I am extremely proud of our members and their dedication, commitment and resilience against extraordinary circumstances.”
While the dangerous fire conditions have eased, the recovery for many communities will continue for some time, with all emergency sector partners contributing to support those in need.
This support for communities extended beyond firefighting to CFA’s role in providing water to the residents of Mirboo North, after their water supply was interrupted following severe storms. You can read more about this here.
The events of this week have involved thousands of our members and we encourage anyone who might need additional support for themselves or a family member to call our Wellbeing Support Line 24/7 on 1800 959 232 for advice on a range of topics.
**All details current as at 12pm, Friday 16 February 2024.