In a promising development amidst the bushfire crisis gripping Victoria’s west, firefighting authorities reported that no homes were believed to be destroyed overnight.
Multiple blazes, including the Bayindeen fire, which expanded to a substantial 22,000 hectares, were successfully contained by crews.
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The most recent incident occurred near Dereel, located south of Ballarat, where the blaze burnt around 100 hectares.
Firefighters contained the blaze, with the emergency warning downgraded to a Watch and Act level.
Alen Slijepcevic from the State Control Centre commended the efforts of over 300 firefighters, expressing optimism that while there might be some structure losses, homes within the fire zone remained secure.
The Dereel fire, burning approximately 100 hectares, coincided with a change in wind direction, prompting residents to evacuate.
An emergency warning issued on Wednesday at 7:30pm urged residents in Dereel, Corindhap, and Rokewood Junction that evacuation at that point was too late.
“The work that crews have done over the last seven days paid off,” he said.
“Conditions were pretty bad but there was no lightning so there were no source of ignition apart from the one that happened in Dereel,” Mr Slijepcevic said.
Despite the challenges, firefighters anticipate a more manageable day on Thursday, thanks to milder weather conditions.
To the north-west of Ballarat, a week-long bushfire persists within containment lines but remains a focal point for firefighting efforts.
The Bayindeen fire, which has already consumed over 22,000 hectares and claimed at least six homes, is expected to be downgraded from Watch and Act level.
Residents are advised to stay informed via Vic Emergency.
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