Four crucial evacuation orders were issued around midday for residents in the path of the Gellibrand fire, which has been raging in the Otways since January 10. Over the weekend, intense heat caused the blaze to nearly double in size, breaching containment lines on Saturday night. Authorities are urging those in the area to act swiftly and implement their bushfire survival plans immediately.
As the bushfire threat is anticipated to increase on Tuesday, January 27th, community members are being advised to ensure their properties are adequately prepared if they plan to remain. The recommended evacuation route is via Birregurra-Forrest Road and Forrest-Apollo Bay Road towards Colac. However, officials have cautioned that Forrest-Apollo Bay Road could be closed should the fire activity draw too close.
For those who find themselves without a safe place to seek refuge, three relief centers have been set up at strategic locations to offer shelter and support. Meanwhile, all parks and campgrounds in the affected region, including the Great Otway National Park, have been closed to ensure public safety.
The safest evacuation route is Birregurra-Forrest Rd and Forrest-Apollo Bay Road towards Colac, but authorities have warned Forrest-Apollo Bay Road may be closed if the fire activity reaches its vicinity.
Three relief centres have been established at the following locations for people who do not have a safe place to go:
- Colac Showgrounds – enter via Bruce Street – This is the only centre that you can take large domestic animals
- Colac Blue Water Fitness 118-134 Hearn St
- Grovedale Community Hub. 45-47 Heyers Road
All parks and campgrounds in the area, including the Great Otway National Park, are closed.
A statewide Total Fire Ban has also been issued for tomorrow.
A series of watch-and-act warnings remain in place for other major bushfires burning across the state, including the Walwa fire and the Dargo/Wonnangatta fire.
