Firefighters have contained two major bushfires burning in national parks across Victoria’s south-west.
ADF to build temporary bridge to give access to flood-ravaged town
Fire authorities confirmed the Wallaby Rocks section of the fire was contained yesterday with more than 59,000 hectares burnt.
The Yarram Gap Road section was contained on January 6 and declared under control on January 13.
More than 76,000 hectares of national park and agricultural land, about 270km south-west of Melbourne, has been impacted by the fire.
Several communities have been on edge over the past week with many emergency warnings issued, with residents living near the fires being urged to leave.
Meanwhile, the Little Desert fire spread rapidly after it started on January 27, burning more than 95,000 hectares and destroying two properties, including one home, as well as a popular wedding and camping venue.
State Response Controller David Nugent said it had been an incredible effort from firefighters to contain the two large fires.
“We’ve had a long and challenging fire season so far with crews from across the state and interstate working on the bushfires since December,” Nugent said.
“The impacts to the local communities and tourism in those areas has been tough and hopefully we can now begin the process of re-opening those areas.
“Firefighters will continue to monitor and patrol the fires for a number of weeks. It is likely we will still see smoke and small flare-ups in the area, but we will continue to be present to deal with these when and as they arise.”
Fire authorities have warned the next days will still be challenging with strong winds forecast from the south.
Warm to hot conditions are also expected over the next week.
