Residents in the neighbouring towns of the Carlisle River fire, including Gellibrand, Kawarren, Beech Forest, Forrest, Barongarook and surrounding areas in the Otways National Park are being urged to prepare to evacuate today ahead of extreme fire danger conditions tomorrow, as the fire continues to grow.
The Carlisle River fire breached containment lines on Saturday afternoon, and has burned approximately 9,400ha. Emergency services remain on scene, however with extreme fire danger conditions forecast tomorrow (27 January), the fire may impact southern Otway National Park and coastal communities as far as Lorne and Aireys Inlet.
These conditions significantly increase the likelihood of fire spread, and will pose a serious threat to homes, properties, livestock and lives.
From midday today, Victoria Police and Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) crews began door knocking homes and properties in the Greater Otways area, strongly recommend residents to evacuate immediately. This action is being taken to keep the community safe ahead of tomorrow’s conditions.
Residents from more than 1,100 properties in the Greater Otways area are being asked to evacuate before sunset today.
All visitor sites in the Great Otway National Park and State Forests will be closed from today until further notice.
Forrest-Apollo Bay Road towards Colac is currently open. Increased fire activity may lead to the closure of this road.
Residents are strongly advised to enact their bushfire survival plan immediately and leave early. It is critical that community members follow the direction and advice of emergency services when asked to evacuate.
For those who do not have a safe place to go, an Emergency Relief Centre is open at the Colac Showgrounds for domestic and large animals including horses. Bluewater Leisure Centre in Colac 118-134 Hearn Street Colac is also open but pets are not allowed.
The Grovedale Community Hub, located 45-47 Heyers Road is also open for people and families and can accommodate domestic pets. Pets must be self-managed, kept on a leash or in crates.
Emergency services acknowledge the significant impact recent events have had on the community. However, leaving early is essential to protect lives and reduce risk to both residents and emergency responders.
Let friends, family and emergency services know you are safe with Red Cross Register.Find.Reunite. You can do this if you left your home.
Staying informed is critical at this time, especially if you live or are holidaying in the impacted area.
A statewide Total Fire Ban has also been issued for tomorrow. A Total Fire Ban means no fires can be lit or be allowed to remain alight in the open air. This includes campfires and some barbecues.
Quotes attributable to Colac Deputy Incident Controller Alistair Drayton
“The conditions tomorrow mean the fire could spread quickly and unpredictably. We strongly recommend people in affected areas to enact their bushfire plan, and leave early to protect themselves and their families.
“Firefighters and support emergency service agencies are doing everything possible to manage the situation, but staying safe is a shared responsibility.
“Ensure to download the VicEmergency app, set watch zones for your area, and keep listening to your local emergency broadcaster for the latest information.”
Victorians are reminded to never rely on one source for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including
- VicEmergency app
- www.emergency.vic.gov.au
- Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV
- Call the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226
- Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and X
-ENDS-
Media contact:
State Control Centre Media via 1300 287 299
