By JESSE GRAHAM and VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS
UPDATE: 5.45pm
The fire behind Rankins Road in Monbulk has been declared as under control as of 5pm Wednesday 28 October.
CFA have confirmed the fire destroyed a semi-trailer vehicle on the property and threatened a shed but no further damage to property has been confirmed.
A fleet of 22 fire vehicles will remain at the scene until the burning in heavier vegetation is put out.
“We hit the fire hard and fast. Thanks to the great work by crews at the scene in gaining control of the fire,” Duty Officer Colin Brown said.
An Advice message has been issued to the area and David Hill Road will remain closed until deemed safe to reopen.
UPDATE:
Monbulk Police have said the blaze started from a burn-off at a private property behind Rankins Rd.
Police said the fire has destroyed a semi-trailer vehicle on the property.
At this stage, police say there is no immediate threat to nearby homes.
More as it comes.
Earlier
MORE than a dozen fire trucks are currently fighting a fire in heavily-vegetated bushland in David Hill Road, Monbulk.
A CFA spokesperson said that a semi-trailer was “fully involved“, with a one hectare fire burning in heavily-vegetated bushland near Monbulk, which started at 2.50pm.
The fire is not yet under control and the CFA has issued a Watch and Act warning for the surrounding areas, near Monbulk-Emerald Road.
“Don’t wait, leaving now is the safest option,” said the warning.
“Conditions may change and get worse very quickly.
“Emergency services may not be able to help you if you decide to stay.”
The warning reminds residents to take perscriptions and medication, photo ID, water, mobile phones and chargers, and to check on neighbours to see if they are monitoring conditions.
The spokesperson said 12 fire trucks, with crews from Silvan, Clematis and Kallista, among others, were currently at the scene, with three more trucks on the way.
As of 4.08pm, 18 trucks were reportedly at the scene, and David Hill Road is closed to traffic as CFA crews fight the blaze.
Residents are asked to monitor conditions at www.emergency.vic.gov.au, via ABC Local Radio or by calling the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
The next update is due at 5.45pm.
More as it comes.
