February 22nd, 2023Kooroocheang bushfire leaves locals on alert

Residents in the Koorocheang and Basalt area were on high alert over the past couple of days in the wake of a bushfire which broke out on Monday afternoon, spreading rapidly in dry conditions.

Multiple CFA units from across the region, Forest Fire Management Victoria, and air support have been involved in fighting the fire which has burnt through an estimated five to six hectares of bushland after starting in the Old Werona Road area around 4.30pm on Monday.

The fire had been brought under control after several hours of battling to contain it on Monday evening but residents in the area were still on alert yesterday when Forest Fire Management Victoria issued a community information message for Basalt, Bryces Flat, Daylesford, Hepburn, Hepburn Springs, Kidds Gully, Kooroocheang, Shepherds Flat. 

The message informed that

• The fire is now under control.
• Crews will continue to work on the fire throughout today (Tuesday February 21)
• Aircraft may be on the scene throughout today.
• Smoke may be visible from nearby communities and roads. 

It was understood that the fire had been started accidentally by the use of power tools in the area.