Little River grass fire being treated as suspicious
UPDATE
The grassfire at Little River is being treated as suspicious, with authorities saying there was three ignition points to the blaze.
“However it’s too early to say whether it was deliberately lit,” 3AW Reporter Kiara Parker told Tom Elliott.
“It’s burnt through more than 1200 hectares.
“It is still out of control but they are making progress.”
The cool change is not expected to hit the fire ground until 10pm
More than 120 homes will need to be checked for damage.
The evacuation alert for Mambourin and Manor has been downgraded to a Watch & Act message.
Firefighters have been able to stop the spread of the fire, but the fire remains active within fire boundaries at Little River.
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Little River grassfire is being treated as suspicious 3 ignition points .. burnt more than 1200 hectares. Sheds structural losses.. 130 homes in area need to be checked @3AW693 pic.twitter.com/6J9EWUm6hw
— Kiara Parker (@Kiara_Parker_) December 7, 2018
EARLIER
More than 200 firefighters, assisted by eight aircraft, are battling a fast moving grassfire at Little River, between Werribee and Geelong.
An urgent evacuation notice has been issued for residents in Mambourin and Manor.
They’re being advised to get out now as after 3pm it may be too late to leave.
The fire is burning in a south-easterly direction toward Manor Road.
The relief centre is located at Centenary Hall at the corner of Cox Road and Princes Highway.
Chris Miller from VicRoads says there’s a significant amount of smoke over the Princes Freeway, and motorists are advised to take care and be aware of emergency services vehicles.
An Advice message has been issued for the surrounding suburbs of Avalon, Cocoroc, Point Wilson, and Werribee South.
While there is no immediate threat to residents in these areas, people should stay informed and monitor conditions.
Latest video from the news chopper shows just how far the Little River fire has spread. The fire is not yet under control. If you are located in Mambourin or Manor you should evacuate now. Monitor @vicemergency: https://t.co/SJHfQc8LXm #7News pic.twitter.com/rTKUVIdocA
— 7 News Melbourne (@7NewsMelbourne) December 7, 2018