Fires around Lorne continue to burn out of control resulting in significant road closures and town evacuations. CFA-DELWP Media Release
Incident Controller, Alistair Drayton, said more than 150 fire personnel as well as 60 tankers, six water bombers and two large aerial tankers are battling the Jamieson Track fire 8km south west of Lorne.
“The fire has now burnt through around 1500 hectares. It has reached Wye River and extended out to the beach.”
“We are seeing some significant spot fires breaking away from the main fire, particularly to the south.”
“An emergency warning remains in place for Wye River and Separation Creek and evacuation of both towns has taken place.”
“There have been no reports of injury or loss of life but several houses have been destroyed.”
“We strongly recommending that people in Kennett River and Grey River evacuate and seek shelter at 34 Costin Street Apollo Bay, Apollo Bay Leisure Centre.”
“An evacuation message is also in place for Lorne. People in Lorne can make their way to the Torquay Relief Centre at 1 Merryjig Drive.”
“The Great Ocean Road is otherwise closed for general traffic from Bell Brae, west of Torquay to Skenes Creek.”
“If you are travelling near fire affected areas please obey any traffic management, take care, slow down and turn your headlights on.”
“We are pleased by the positive community response to warnings and I thank the community for their ongoing cooperation.”
“For everyone heading home from Christmas day festivities please stay up-to-date with what is happening with these fires.”
People should keep informed via www.emergency.vic.gov.au, tuning into ABC Local Radio, downloading the FireReady App, calling the Victorian Bushfire Information Line (VBIL) on 1800 240 667
Author: CFA Media