Premier Jacinta Allan has declared a State of Disaster in the aftermath of yesterday’s devastating bushfires and grass fires across Victoria.
The blazes prompted dozens of Emergency Warnings including for fires burning at Bamganie yesterday afternoon.
The fire travelled from Mt Mercer Road in a south-easterly direction towards Lethbridge.
Much of the surrounding Meredith, Lethbridge and Cargerie areas were issued a watch and act message, with the instruction to stay near shelter.
The warnings have been downgraded even further as authorities monitor their progress.
Golden Plains Shire is among 18 local government areas impacted by the State of Disaster declaration that came in the early hours of the morning.
The Premier outlined the impact of the declaration as fire fighting efforts continue.
“With these powers, authorities can order evacuations, control movement and act decisively without delay. If people insist on staying somewhere where they are in danger, authorities now have the power to force them to leave,” she said.
With the disaster declaration, emergency payments are now available for those impacted by the fires.
That assistance is being provided for those, who’ve had their homes damaged or destroyed or who have had to evacuate the area. Payments are available per adult or child up to a maximum of $2, 380 per family.
Cooler conditions have aided fire fighters, who’re monitoring fires at Kennedy’s to the north east of the Twelve Apostles, while another is still burning at Carlisle Creek
A total fire ban has been declared for all of Victoria.
A community information message has also been issued for smoke across the state.
Authorities say smoke may be seen or smelt in parts of Victoria, due to several bushfires and grassfires burning across the state.
They say smoke and ash may drift to far-reaching areas, away from the actual fires
