A grassfire which burnt an estimated 1130 hectares at Toolleen, east of Bendigo, today (26/12) is under control.
CFA was called to the fire near McNamara and Hamblin Roads just after 2.30pm.
(video from Bendigo Advertiser)
It took more than 200 firefighters with support from water bombing aircraft over two hours to bring the fire under control due to windy conditions.
The fast-moving grassfire was burning towards the town of Colbinabbin and an emergency warning was issued for the areas of Toolleen, Colbinabbin and RedCastle. This has since been downgraded to an advice message (see cfa.vic.gov.au for the latest warnings and advice).
A firefighter was treated on scene for heat exhaustion. There have been no further reports of injuries. A local vineyard was impacted by the fire, however the extent of the damage is not known. There have also been reports of stock loss.
The Rochester - Heathcote Road and the Bendigo -Murchison Road remain closed because of the fire (check the VicRoads website for updates on road closures).
Crews will remain on scene overnight and into tomorrow patrolling the fire and blacking out.
It is believed the fire was started by a header.
Residents and people travelling through the area should keep informed via www.cfa.vic.gov.au, by downloading the FireReady app, through Twitter (CFA_Updates), Facebook or by phoning the Victorian Bushfire Information Line (VBIL) 1800 240 667.
Author: CFA Media