Visitors thinking of travelling to the Alpine National Park are reminded that the Terrible Hollow-Mt Buggery fire is in the area of the northern Wonnangatta Valley and they should stay clear of this area.
Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) Agency Commander Dave Sayce said that the fire is approximately 17 kilometres east of Mount Buller and is currently around 42 hectares.
“The fire is close to the Australian Alps walking track and the Macalister Springs Hut. It is currently active in the Cross Cut Saw section of the track,” Mr Sayce said.
“The Alpine National Park is a very popular spot for campers, hikers and other visitors. With the holidays now upon us, we know people will be hitting the road to enjoy some time in the outdoors.
“Parks Victoria rangers have been speaking to visitors since Friday and some signage is in place.
“However we’re asking people to check conditions before they travel. Mobile phone coverage is very limited in parts of the park and people should not expect a personal warning,” Mr Sayce said.
The Australian Alpine Walking Track (AAWT) is closed from King Billy Saddle through to Barry Saddle (where Barry Saddle adjoins the Wonnangatta Road).
In addition the following tracks are also closed – Howitt Spur Walking Track, Queen Spur Walking Track, King Spur Walking Track and Macalister Springs Walking Track. This general area of closures to the AAWT is also known as the Howitt Crosscut Speculation Area.
Anyone thinking of travelling to the area can stay informed by:
• checking the CFA website
• listening to ABC local radio, commercial and designated community radio stations or SKY News TV
• call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line (VBIL) on 1800 240 667 (people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech/communication can contact the VBIL vis the National Relay Service 1800 555 677)
• Download the FireReady App or follow CFA on Twitter or Facebook
• For Road closures check the VicRoads website.
“DEPI and Parks Victoria remote area firefighters are also constructing a firebreak on the east and south eastern sectors of the fire,” Mr Sayce said.
“For reasons of accessibility and safety fixed wing aircraft and helicopters are also dropping retardant on nearby ridge lines to halt the fire’s spread on the western side,” he said.
Rain is expected in the area of the fire late this afternoon.
DEPI Media Contact: 1300 134 444
Author: CFA Media