After three weeks,the huge fire in the Grampians is contained. Now the hard work of recovery lies ahead,in a region where fire is becoming more prevalent.
Total fire bans will be in effect across much of the state on Sunday as the heat persists.
Anthony Albanese visited Horsham on Sunday,saying payments to workers and sole traders impacted by the ongoing blaze would help communities recover.
Authorities are warning property loss numbers are expected to increase as assessments continue.
Twenty joeys found refuge from the Boxing Day fire conditions inside the home of a shelter operator.
The full extent of the damage is being assessed by authorities,but at least 75,000 hectares has already burnt,causing losses to one home,livestock,fences and sheds.
Residents near the Grampians National Park have been ordered to take shelter as firefighters battle an out-of-control bushfire threatening their properties.
Fires have ravaged this part of Victoria before,and locals are sanguine under an apocalyptic sky.
There are fears new fires will start and a large blaze in the state’s west will spread further amid 100km/h winds and near 40-degree temperatures predicted for Thursday.
Tuesday’s mild conditions allowed Halls Gap residents a brief window to return to their homes,but temperatures and wind will soon contribute to extreme fire danger.
High temperatures and strong winds could turn three major bushfires into fast-moving infernos that threaten homes and lives,authorities have warned.