CFA Media Contact: 5330 3124
DSE Media Contact: 9412 4777
Joint Media Release
From the State Control Centre
Wednesday, 23 December, 2009.
Total Fire Bans in north of the state as fire danger rises to extreme
Fire danger will be extreme in the north of the state tomorrow with temperatures forecast to rise into the
high 30s, strong winds and thunderstorms.
State Controller Russell Rees said the risk would be extreme in the Mallee, Northern Country, North Central and
North East, severe in West and East Gippsland, and very high in the Wimmera, Central and Western districts.
Total Fire Bans have been declared in the North Eastern and North Western districts.
Mr Rees said emergency services were warning drivers that an East Gippsland section of the Princes Hwy might
have to be closed tomorrow if a bushfire burning near Cann River moves too close to the road.
“A fire is currently burning in the headwaters of the Thurra River, 5km east of Mt Kaye,” he said. “The fire is
currently 150ha and is not threatening communities but we're advising people that it has the potential to impact on
the Princes Hwy on Thursday and they may need to alter their plans or prepare for possible delays."
Mr Rees said it was important people across the state remained vigilant on Thursday while completing their
preparations for Christmas.
“This is a busy time of the year but everyone living in bushfire-prone areas needs to ensure they have a Bushfire
Survival Plan and be ready to implement it tomorrow.”
Residents in the Wimmera are also advised that smoke from South Australian bushfires at Lucindale and Kingston
may be visible for the next 24 hours.
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NEWS 
