Emergency services were in high demand over the weekend with multiple fire brigades attending to two grass fires in the Baringhup/Tarrengower area, and a car accident in Maldon.

The first was a grass fire in Greenhill Bridge Road on Saturday 11 March where fire burned through grass and bullrushes. Maldon Brigade sent two tankers but Maldon Tanker One had to return due to mechanical problems. The mechanical issue was resolved.

A large number of rabbit burrows alongside the smoke made the terrain very difficult for the heavy vehicles. Firebomber helicopters were deployed and several brigades were required. One firefighter required medical attention for breathing difficulties and the air ambulance was called. The cause of the first fire is under investigation.

While attending to this job, one of the helicopters spotted a second grass fire only a few kilometres away on Goughs Range Road. A number of trucks were redirected to the second location and were fortunately only required to complete the job. With the helicopters already on hand, the spread of the fire was effectively contained. The cause of this fire was angle grinding. 

On the morning of Sunday 12 March, the Maldon Brigade was paged to a motor vehicle accident on Watersons Road, Maldon. The occupant was taken by road ambulance to Bendigo. Victoria police is investigating the cause.

The combined effort of Baringhup, Maldon Fire Brigade, Walmer, Carisbrook Fire Station, Woodstock West and Moolort Brigades kept the community safe. 

Fire restrictions are still in force across the state.

This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 17 March 2023.