Authorities say 'testing' weather conditions have contributed to a hazard reduction burn getting out of control near Daylesford, Victoria. At one stage, the flames came within a few hundred metres of properties.

Daylesford

Fire officials have faced criticism from locals in Daylesford, Australia, regarding a planned burn that was initiated in Hepburn Regional Park. The controlled blaze was intended to manage fire risks but escaped its containment, increasing concerns among residents and tourists visiting during the school holidays. 

The burn, which started in an area about four kilometres southwest of Daylesford, was meant to cover 200 hectares. However, by Friday, it was declared a bushfire, and the affected area expanded by an additional 91 hectares. Residents noted that the controlled burn was overdue, following storms in 2021 that left hazardous amounts of fuel in the forest.

In response to the situation, 150 firefighters have been mobilized to manage the spread of the fire, particularly due to the forecasted windy conditions. An investigation will be conducted to evaluate how the fire management plan was executed, while a prepare-to-leave warning has been issued to affected residents. Officials are expected to downgrade the alert status by the following day.



'Controlled burn' approaches homes

A frosty reception for fire officials. Why was the burn planned during the school holidays when there's always an influx of tourists to the area? Forced to explain to locals why a planned burn jumped containment lines. The controlled blaze began Thursday in Hepburn Regional Park, about four kilometres southwest of Daylesford, until fire crews lost control. It is contained all the way around with bulldoze. Just move in a little bit closer. By Friday, it was declared a bushfire and on Saturday, a prepare to leave warning was issued. The planned burn was around 200 hectares and the bushfire has increased that size by a further 91 hectares. Residents say the burn off was well overdue after storms tore through the forest in 2021, leaving a large amount of fuel, increasing the chance of fires in the area. Obviously, we knew the planned burn was going to happen, but we were a bit surprised that it got out of control. With windy conditions forecast for this evening, strike teams are at the ready with a total of 150 firefighters poised to react within minutes. All eyes now turning to an investigation as to how the fire was managed. I think firstly, I think it's important to find out what went on here and not jump to conclusions. The WATCH and ACT is expected to be downgraded to advice by tomorrow morning. Rebecca Powell for 10 News First.

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