BENALLA, VIC. — A major grass fire has broken out as strike teams assemble at Glelrowan CFA Fire Station.
A major grass fire has erupted slightly north of Benalla township. Several CFA Fire Brigades are forming strike teams and will assemble shortly at the Glenrowan CFA Station.
The grassfire is travelling from Tarnook Rd in an easterly direction towards the Midland Highway, which is currently out of control.
People in the warning area should leave immediately in a southerly direction towards Benalla. There has now also been a “burn over”.
Firefighters have been unable to stop the fire. It has crossed Carroll Rd.
“Volunteer firefighters from right across the region are working tirelessly on this fire, and our community owes them an enormous thank you with the tough conditions they are facing,” a volunteer firefighter told VicNews via amateur ‘ham’ radio from Acheron.
Local residents are advised to go to Benalla urgently.
A relief centre is now open at Benalla Town Hall, 82-86 Nunn St, Benalla. Alternatively, seek shelter at the home of family or friends that is away from the warning area.
A Neighbourhood Safer Place, also known as a Bushfire Place of Last Resort, is for when all other bushfire plans have failed and only if it is nearby.
They do not guarantee safety but may offer some protection from flame and heat. Travelling to a Neighbourhood Safer Place can be dangerous.
With sources via amateur ‘ham’ radio.
