A bushfire that threatened campers at Cape Otway in Victoria’s south-west has now slowed after emergency text messages alerted over 1,000 locals and campers to evacuate the area near the Great Ocean Road. The blaze, which started at Blanket Bay Road, rapidly grew to approximately 15 hectares before firefighters were able to contain its spread. Despite the situation being under control, authorities have cautioned that circumstances could change at any moment, advising residents and tourists to remain vigilant.
Firefighting crews from neighboring regions swiftly responded to combat the fire and prevent further escalation. While most campers were successfully evacuated during the night, approximately 100 individuals at Blanket Bay campground were stranded due to unsafe conditions, necessitating their sheltering in place. Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman reassured that these campers were not in immediate danger and that additional resources were deployed to ensure their safety.
Among those impacted were Castlemaine resident Ricky Carson and German tourist Norbit Sehmer, who found themselves abruptly evacuated from Bimbi Park caravan park in the early hours of the morning. Despite the chaos, campers exhibited remarkable composure during the evacuation process, swiftly heeding the warnings and leaving the park without incident.
The successful execution of the caravan park’s bushfire plan was lauded by its owners, Katrina and Nathaniel Fotinas, who emphasized the importance of regular plan revisions and designated evacuation responsibilities. Although the situation was tense, with one camper losing their keys causing a brief scare, the prompt response and coordination ensured the safety of all guests.
Emergency manager Sam Liston from Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority highlighted the challenges posed by the fire’s proximity to the forest, necessitating specialized firefighting tactics due to the rugged terrain. Investigations into the fire’s origin are ongoing, with Port Campbell CFA Captain Katy Millard noting the exceptionally dry conditions in the Otway region, emphasizing the critical need for preparedness and swift response to prevent further incidents.
As the affected area continues to be monitored, authorities are urging caution and advising residents and visitors to stay updated on the evolving situation. The resilience and cooperation displayed by campers and emergency responders underscore the importance of preparedness and swift action in mitigating the impact of natural disasters like bushfires.
📰 Related Articles
- Great Ocean Road Running Festival Celebrates 20th Edition in Melbourne
- Great Ocean Road Running Festival Celebrates 20 Years Milestone
- Discover Road Trip Escapes Near Lincoln for Outdoor Adventures
- Zaragoza Marathon Unites Athletes for Road Safety Fundraising
- Why Did Kieran McCrave Die in a Freak Accident Near North Manchester Hospital?