DISTRICT fire-fighting resources were part of the force of more than 30 appliances that responded to extinguish a grass and scrub fire that burnt through about 500 hectares near Swan Hill on Monday.
The Country Fire Authority sent all available tankers and some support vehicles from CFA District 20.
The fire was first noticed around 1pm and burnt through in an area between Castle Donnington and Swan Hill before being contained.
It was fanned by a strong north-westerly wind in sweltering conditions with temperatures approaching 40 degrees on the region’s first Total Fire Ban heading into Summer.
CFA District 20 regional duty manager, Operations Officer John Cutting said that tanker crews from the Gannawarra group, including Cohuna, Kerang, Koondrook, Macorna, Quambatook and Lalbert were sent to the scene and a strike team of tanker crews from Boort, Bridgewater, Inglewood and Pyramid Hill moved into District 20 to fill those absences.
“More resources were needed there, so we sent all available tankers, but part of our plan is to maintain coverage in those areas left depleted,” he said.
Victorian Emergency Management Commissioner, Craig Lapsley said that “typical Summer” conditions of strong wind, high temperatures and low humidity combined with a high fuel load provided the elements to allow the fire to spread so rapidly.
“It is a timely warning for landholders to complete fire prevention measures, ensure you have personal protection plans and remained tuned to emergency radio reports and alerts on the new Victorian Emergency mobile phone app.”, he said.
