Hot weather and windy conditions earlier this week fanned a bushfire between Dean and Creswick which required about 250 Forest Fire Management and CFA personnel to bring it under control worked.

The fire burned through nearly 200 hectares of the Creswick State Forest. The fire has since been contained and is now under control but an advice message and smoke warnings remain for the areas of Dean, Newlyn, Springmount, Wattle Flat.

About a dozen residents around Creswick, including at a nearby campground, were evacuated. There were no reports of structural losses but crews were continuing to assess properties.

Fire investigators and Victoria Police were at the fire ground trying to determine how the blaze began. The area is still an active fire ground, emergency services and Council staff will be in and around the area over the coming days.

Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said he was grateful for the efforts of emergency service personnel and our Council staff.

“We extend our deepest thanks to the CFA, Forest Fire Management Victoria, and all emergency personnel who worked throughout the day and night to protect lives and property. Their dedication is a true reflection of their commitment to the safety of our community,” said Cr Henderson.

“Our thanks also go to the staff from our Council, community volunteers, and all other support services, whose behind-the-scenes efforts were crucial in managing the crisis and ensuring that those affected received assistance as quickly as possible,” said Cr Henderson.

The fire serves as a reminder to members of our community about the importance of being fire ready. “We encourage everyone to take this time to review their bushfire plans and ensure that they have adequate preparations in place,” said Cr Henderson.

Victoria’s integrated emergency warning system means the community can stay up-to-date on multiple channels:

  • Download the VicEmergency app and set up a watch zone
  • Visit the VicEmergency website
  • Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and Twitter
  • Listen to local ABC radio
  • Tune into local TV or Sky News
  • Call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226

For more information and a list of emergency broadcasters, visit emergency.vic.gov.au/prepare.

This article is based on a media release from Hepburn Shire Council.