FIREYS SAVE SHEEP FARM
THREE CHOPPERS CALLED IN
FIRE crews rallied to save a sheep farm and wind turbines northwest of Geelong as fire broke out in grass and scrubland yesterday.
Fire crews were called to land off the Shelford-Mt Mercer road near Robbies Rd, between Mt Mercer and Shelford, at 12.40pm after reports that shifting winds were spreading the roadside fire towards assets.
CFA operations officer Ian Beswicke said 25 tankers worked to control the fire, which burned about 40 hectares of private land.
He said a damaged truck sparked the blaze.
“The tailshaft of a truck dripped out and caused sparks which spat out onto the grass. It burned private land, mainly all stubbled with no livestock or property damaged,” he said.
“We had 25 trucks and three helicopters assisting.
“It’s a good timely reminder for anyone who sees fire in these rural areas to contact the CFA, particularly on these hot days.”
The Country Fire Authority issued an advice message for residents in the Bamganie, Barunah Park, Meredith, Mount Mercer, Rokewood, Shelford and Warrambine areas, and there was a large amount of smoke visible in the area.
Fire crews spent more than three hours on the scene blacking out the fire.
It follows a 60 to 70 hectare grass fire at Mannerim on Wednesday which had residents ready to evacuate as strong winds blew flames towards Drysdale. It’s believed that fire was deliberately lit.