UPDATE: A state of disaster has been declared across large parts of Victoria as firefighters battle devastating blazes. Declared by Premier Jacinta Allan, this urgent measure impacts 18 local government areas and one alpine resort, initiated in the early hours of October 14, 2023.
The declaration empowers authorities to enforce evacuations, control movement, and access private property for emergency responses. “This declaration gives our authorities extra powers to confront an emergency of extraordinary scale and dangers,” Premier Allan stated. If you are in fire-affected areas, she urged, “if you can, you must leave.”
Extreme conditions have fueled the fires, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F) and strong winds complicating firefighting efforts. A major grassfire near Meredith has already scorched over 2,000 hectares, including sections of the Meredith State Forest. More than 75 firefighting vehicles and aerial support are actively engaged in the battle against the blaze.
In the Ballarat region, emergency warnings were issued as two significant fires advanced, prompting local authorities to advise residents to prepare to evacuate or seek shelter. Meanwhile, in Bendigo, erratic winds hampered control efforts for a fire affecting Harcourt and Ravenswood, leading to evacuations in nearby communities.
Incident controller Michael Masters remarked, “We still do not know the full impact of the fire. We are aware houses and primary places of residence have been destroyed.” Tragically, reports confirm at least one fatality linked to the ongoing fire crisis.
In the Geelong area, at least two homes were lost in Leopold after a rapid structure fire spread. An out-of-control grassfire along Avalon Road escalated to an emergency level, with residents in Avalon, Corio, and Lara advised to take shelter immediately.
As of 10 PM, additional fires, believed to have been ignited by lightning, have emerged across the south-west, including around Kennedys Creek and the Otway Ranges. Several remain at a Watch and Act level due to difficult terrain.
Community support measures have been mobilized, offering refuge to affected animals at the Geelong Showgrounds and establishing emergency camping for displaced holidaymakers at Barwon Valley Park in Belmont. A total fire ban remains in effect, prohibiting all open-air fires.
Fire authorities are stressing the importance of monitoring warnings and adhering to safety advice. For the latest updates, residents are urged to visit emergency.vic.gov.au.
As the situation develops, the urgency for safety and preparedness remains paramount. Share this information widely to keep communities informed.
