A day of Total Fire Ban saw crews battle fires in prevailing conditions.
On Saturday 18 March at 1.30pm, crews from Hilldene Fire Brigade recieved a call to a grass and scrub fire that was spreading on Bromfields Lane, Northwood.
As it was a day of Total Fire Ban across much of the state, the brigade was manned and ready to respond to any incidents that might have cropped up.
Hilldene Tanker 1, led by Lieutenant Will Fenech, was first on scene, and made the decision to call for assistance from neighbouring brigades – largely due to the prevailing conditions and limited access to the fire.
. Seymour Fire Brigade, Nagambie Fire Brigade, Avenel Fire Brigade, Tallarook Fire Brigade, Glenaroua Fire Brigade, Broadford Fire Brigade, Wirrate Fire Brigade and Bailstone Fire Brigade responded with assistance.
Crews attacked the head of the fire off a laneway running east to west stopping the fire in its tracks and were able to limit the size of the fire to seven hectares.
LT Fenech said that rapid response and decisive action was critical to preventing any asset loss and limiting the area burnt. He also thanked local residents, who supported crews on the ground.