SIT REP 1

Australian Date/Time – Sunday, February 25, 2024, 1830 AEDT

US Date/Time – Saturday, February 24, 2024, 2330 hours PST

VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA

(L) Vic Emergency Services

INCIDENT SUMMARY

On February 22, 2024, (February 21), a wildfire was reported between Buangor and Warrak around 1030 hours AEDST (Australian time). Note: we are approximately seven hours behind their time zone.

When first due units arrived on the scene, it was determined the wildfire had a rapid rate of spread and was wind-driven. The wildfire was said to be moving in a southeasterly direction. It quickly extended into heavy fire fuels inside of the Mt. Cole State Forest into areas where access was impossible.

However, the fire had become an out-of-control incident at 1900 hours AEDT later that evening (Day 1) burning about 6,300 hectares or almost 16,000 (15,568) acres.

Additional personnel, equipment, and aircraft were ordered.

RESOURCES

Currently, here are the numbers for personnel and equipment:

  • Friday night – 300 personnel, 60 trucks
  • Friday day – 800 personnel, 150 trucks
  • Thursday night – 600 personnel, 120 trucks
  • Thursday day – 1500 personnel with 350 trucks

Photo Credit: VIC Emergency Services

CURRENT STATUS

At 0500 hours on Saturday, February 24, the fire had doubled in size due to northerly winds picking up embers. Yesterday morning, it was said to be at 15,000 hectares and listed at a whopping 37,066 acres (U.S. conversion/calculation).

Two Fire Community Meetings were held on February 23rd at the Shelters (Relief Centres) in Ballarat and Maryborough with more than 150 people in attendance.

SHELTER(S)

A Shelter is located at Alexandra Oval, Waratah Avenue in Ararat. Additional location is at the Princes Park Reserve at 40 Park Road, Maryborough.

POINT-OF-CONTACTS

CALL TRIPLE 0 (000) FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCIES.

COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER: Published 2/25/2024: https://files-em.em.vic.gov.au/public/CommNews/Community-Newletters/24_Feb_2024_CommunityInformationNewsletter.pdf?v=202402250131

(c) 2024 NW Fire Blog/Skagit Valley Girl Media