Police in northern Victoria are urging residents in the fire-affected Longwood area to remain on high alert following disturbing reports of potential looting activity. Officers have begun doorknocking locals to inform them of concerns after sightings of individuals with empty trailers appearing to survey abandoned properties.
'Sickening' Reports Amid Community Trauma
While no confirmed looting incidents have been reported yet, the suspicious activity has sparked outrage and deep distress within communities already grappling with devastating bushfire losses. Local farmer Paul Willis told Sunrise he was emotionally overwhelmed by the news. "I almost started crying, thinking, how could anybody stoop to that lowest level?" he said.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan echoed the community's disgust, stating the reports made her feel physically ill. "It's just sickening to hear that local police in a fire-affected community are... warning residents to be vigilant about looting," she said. The Premier, who visited the Seymour Relief Centre, emphasised that families who had lost everything did not need the added anxiety of fearing for their remaining property.
Fire Crisis Far From Over
The warning comes as Victoria remains under significant bushfire threat. Authorities report 32 fires are still burning across the state, with 10 considered fires of significant concern. The largest blaze, the Longwood fire in central Victoria, continues to threaten communities including Bonnydoon, Lake Eildon, and Euroa, with its northern and eastern flanks still burning out of control.
In the state's northeast, the Walwa fire has scorched approximately 100,000 hectares and continues to menace areas around Corryong. In Gippsland, the Dargo-Wanongada complex fire threatens the township of Dargo. Meanwhile, fires in the Otways have forced the closure of the Great Ocean Road, with thick smoke from the blazes blanketing Melbourne and causing poor air quality, particularly for vulnerable residents.
Government Support and Ongoing Vigilance
Premier Allan confirmed that immediate personal hardship payments are already being distributed, with 14 relief centres established across fire-affected communities. These centres provide essential support, including meals, information on financial assistance, and mental health counselling.
The fires have destroyed an estimated 50 homes so far, with residents beginning the heartbreaking process of returning to assess the damage. In some areas, like Harcourt near Bendigo, tap water has been declared undrinkable due to damaged infrastructure, with crews working to restore safe supplies.
Authorities stress that while firefighters have made progress on some fronts, hot spots, shifting winds, and forecast heat in the coming weeks are expected to continue challenging crews and threatening communities. Police and emergency services reiterate their call for all residents to stay vigilant, monitor conditions closely, and follow official advice as the prolonged fire emergency continues.
