A fast-moving grass fire caused significant disruption on the Geelong Ring Road on Thursday afternoon, impacting traffic and triggering a major emergency services response.
Emergency Response and Traffic Chaos
The fire was reported shortly after 3:30 PM on Thursday, February 29, 2024, in grassland adjacent to the Princes Highway, near the intersection with the Geelong Ring Road. The Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews were dispatched to the scene to battle the blaze.
Due to the fire's proximity to the major arterial road, traffic was severely impacted. Authorities were forced to close lanes on the Geelong Ring Road as firefighters worked to contain the flames. Motorists faced lengthy delays during the afternoon peak period, with traffic backing up for several kilometres. Drivers were urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Containment Efforts and Investigation
Firefighters worked diligently to bring the grass fire under control. The CFA utilised multiple tankers and ground crews to establish containment lines around the perimeter of the fire. The cause of the blaze is currently under investigation by authorities.
While the fire was brought under control, it served as a stark reminder of the rapid spread of grass fires, especially during periods of warm and dry weather. The incident highlighted the importance of community vigilance and the swift action of emergency services.
Community Impact and Safety Message
The incident caused considerable inconvenience for commuters and residents in the area. The quick response prevented any threat to nearby properties, but the traffic disruptions were widespread.
Emergency services reiterated standard safety advice for motorists encountering smoke or fire near roadways. Drivers are reminded to:
- Slow down and turn on headlights.
- Be prepared for sudden changes in conditions and emergency vehicles.
- Follow the directions of police and emergency service personnel on scene.
The Geelong Ring Road is a critical transport link for the region, and any incident causing lane closures leads to significant flow-on effects across the local road network. Authorities continue to monitor the area.
