The bushfire crisis gripping Victoria has taken a tragic turn with the discovery of a body in the fire-ravaged Longwood area, as authorities confirm the loss of approximately 300 structures across the state.
Human Toll and Mounting Destruction
Victoria Police confirmed on Sunday that human remains were located in the northern Victorian region of Gobur, within the Longwood bushfire zone. The grim discovery was made about 100 metres from a vehicle after police gained access to a fire-affected stretch off Yarck Road. The person is yet to be formally identified, and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan detailed the scale of the disaster, revealing 32 active fires were burning across the state, accompanied by 15 emergency warnings and 17 Watch and Act alerts. The structural damage is severe and widespread:
- Longwood fire: Approximately 150 structures destroyed.
- Ravenswood and Harcourt: 47 homes and 3 businesses lost.
- Natimuk: 30 homes and 40 sheds claimed.
- Mount Mercer: One house and 12 sheds destroyed.
Emergency services warn these numbers are expected to rise as damage assessments continue in now-accessible areas.
$19.5 Million Immediate Support Package Activated
In response to the escalating crisis, the Victorian and Federal Governments have announced a $19.5 million joint support package. Premier Allan, standing alongside Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, outlined the immediate assistance, which includes personal hardship payments, emergency accommodation, and livestock support.
Prime Minister Albanese, who has been in near-hourly contact with the Premier, pledged ongoing federal backing. "We've got your back, not just through this crisis but through what comes next as well," he stated. Federal funding will cover:
- Debris removal and restoration of essential public assets.
- Continued support for emergency services, with the Australian Defence Force providing logistics.
- A disaster recovery payment of $1000 per adult for those injured or who have lost homes.
- Targeted funding for the humane treatment of thousands of impacted livestock.
Threat Far From Over as Fights Continue on Multiple Fronts
Premier Allan issued a stern warning that the danger is far from over, urging all residents to heed official advice. "If you are told to leave, do so," she emphasised. While the Harcourt fire is now around 80% contained, serious concerns remain for the Longwood and East Gippsland blazes.
In the Otways, fires ignited by dry lightning have prompted a massive response. Allan confirmed more than 70 aircraft and thousands of personnel are deployed. "We will see fires continue for a while across the state. We are not through the worst of this," she said.
Authorities have pleaded with the public to obey road closures and access restrictions, stressing that firegrounds remain highly dangerous. Minister for Regional Development Kristy McBain echoed the call for vigilance, praising emergency workers and assuring communities that all three levels of government would unite in the recovery effort.
As Victoria battles its blazes, support was also extended to North Queensland, which is facing a category one tropical cyclone and life-threatening flash flooding, with disaster payments activated across 11 local government areas.
