The aftermath: Tens of thousands of hectares scorched in Western Victoria

More than 300 firefighters and 13 aircraft were deployed across the Otways over the weekend, as bushfires remain out of control, scorching tens of thousands of hectares and forcing evacuations from south west Victorian hinterland and rural communities.

Catastrophic weather and state of disaster: The emergency escalated rapidly after a volatile mix of high-30s temperatures, fork lightning and erratic wind shifts drove multiple ignitions across the Otways and the western district. 

A formal state of disaster has been declared for Colac Otway, Corangamite and Ararat Rural City, freeing up additional powers and resources for authorities.

North of Streatham, near Skipton, a fast-moving grass and scrub fire burnt about 19,000 hectares and destroyed more than 25 structures, and it remains unsafe for residents at Streatham, outer Skipton and Carranballac to return. 

Otways fires still uncontained: The Otways remain the major concern, with fires in steep, forested terrain still uncontained. 

According to the State Control Centre, around 3,200 hectares have burned at Kennedys Creek in the national park’s southeast, and the fire crossed Upper Sheepyard Track on Sunday, prompting further aircraft support. 

The Carlisle River fire has impacted about 3,300 hectares following active overnight movement, particularly along the northern edge. 

Two smaller burns of roughly 10 hectares each have been recorded near Cape Otway, but the threat has been reduced. 

At the height of Saturday’s threat, a 40km-long section of the Great Ocean Road at Cape Otway was shut in both directions.

Support for farmers and communities: With livestock, fodder and fencing losses emerging, the Victorian Farmers Federation and Agriculture Victoria have activated their Emergency Fodder Support Program to distribute donated hay and silage to impacted farms.

The state and federal governments have also announced expanded support measures. 

Uninsured households that have lost their primary residence will be eligible for up to $52,250 in assistance. 

Farmers will receive additional mental health, financial and business counselling through the Rural Financial Counselling Service, and the Look Over the Farm Gate program has been brought forward to Friday, offering grants of up to $5,000 for community wellbeing activities.

A 2026 Victorian Bushfire Appeal has also been launched, ensuring 100 percent of public donations flow directly to fire-affected communities.

Header image: Smoke from the Streatham fire. Credit: Westmere CFA Group