Victoria is facing a catastrophic bushfire crisis, with more than 30 blazes burning across the state and leaving a trail of total devastation in several towns. Authorities have confirmed the loss of over 130 structures, including homes, and the scorching of at least 300,000 hectares of land.
State of Emergency as Communities Face Unprecedented Threat
A state of emergency was declared on Friday across 20 local government areas, granting authorities extra powers to manage what Premier Jacinta Allan described as "widespread, fast-moving and devastating" fires. The dangerous conditions are the worst seen since the Black Summer bushfires six years ago, imperilling communities in the state's centre and northeast.
The blanket of smoke was so vast it enveloped Melbourne and reached surf towns along the Great Ocean Road like Torquay, with concerns it could spread further towards Lorne and Apollo Bay.
Towns Razed and Personal Tragedies Unfold
The toll of destruction is severe and widespread. The hardest-hit areas include:
- Ravenswood-Harcourt: 50 structures lost.
- Longwood: 30 structures lost.
- Grass Flat: 20 structures lost.
- Yarroweyah: 10 structures lost.
- Streatham: 5 structures lost.
Emergency Management Commissioner Tim Wiebusch warned the number is conservative and likely to rise. The fires have also caused significant losses of livestock, cropping land, and vineyards, and damaged critical infrastructure like the Bendigo railway line.
For some, the disaster is deeply personal. CFA volunteer of 60 years, Tyrone Rice, lost the home he built in 1984 in Harcourt while he was out helping fight the fires. "This is my father's property originally... it's been part of our family history," he said, calling it the worst fire he's faced because it was personal.
Heroic Efforts and Narrow Escapes
Firefighters have faced extreme danger. One firefighter was hospitalised with third-degree burns to his hands, and a volunteer needed treatment after being hit in the face by a hose. An interstate firefighter suffered a medical episode and was airlifted to Melbourne.
In a relief for the ravaged community of Longwood, three people feared missing after their house was destroyed were located "safe and well." CFA Captain Peter Cookson described the terrifying experience of defending properties in Yarck before racing to Longwood. "All hell broke loose," he recounted, with images of hills ablaze staying with him.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged Australian Defence Force support and urged Victorians to follow emergency advice. With 14 relief centres open and a total fire ban in place, the focus remains on protecting life as the long fight to contain the blazes continues.
