Mount Evelyn
Tuesday, 20 June, 2023
Emergency services respond to truck roll over
Kilsyth residents petition for fenced dog park
Nominations aplenty for Yarra Valley wineries
Lilydale school scores sustainability award
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A Star News Group Publication
Phone: 5957 3700 Trades and Classifieds: 1300 666 808
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Firefighters arrived to the Parry Drive address to find the two-storey house fully involved by fire. Picture: MOOROOLBARK CFA
The Parry Drive house remains fenced off with the inside completely Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS burnt and windows smashed. 341502
Engulfed by fire Smoke was seen billowing from a Mooroolbark property, sending a smoke warning to nearby residents and surrounding suburbs last week. Firefighters were called to the Parry Drive house around 8.30am on Wednesday 14 June to find a two storey home fully involved in fire. “As the team responded to the scene, they witnessed a significant plume of smoke, prompting them to escalate the response,” Mooroolbark CFA posted to social media. Locals noted seeing the smoke from as far as Yarra Glen, while nearby schools had to keep students inside throughout the morning to prevent smoke inhalation. “Six CFA units alongside FRV responded to
reports of a fire in a garage,” a CFA spokesperson said. Members from Mooroolbark, Bayswater and Montrose, as well as Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria crews were at the scene. In total 11 emergency response vehicles were onsite to address the fire and assess the residents of the house. “Upon arrival, the CFA crews confirmed that all residents, including their beloved family dog, were safely accounted for. However, it was disheartening to witness that the house was already engulfed in flames,” Mooroolbark CFA said. Crews wearing breathing apparatus were required to help bring the blaze under control. Firefighters from Warrandyte Fire Brigade
“graciously stepped in to relieve the exhausted firefighters” with the blaze taking more than expected to put out. “We would also like to express our gratitude to Ambulance Victoria for providing health monitoring services to all our firefighters as they exited the intense fire,” Mooroolbark CFA said. The CFA spokesperson said relevant gas and water companies were called to the scene, alongside a building surveyor to assess the damage. “The incident was deemed under control at 9.46am. Crews remained on scene blacking out and mopping up,” the spokesperson said. “An advice warning was issued to the local community for smoke.” Residents in Chirnside Park, Croydon,
Croydon North, Kilsyth, Lilydale and Mooroolbark were advised to stay indoors if they were sensitive to smoke. Mooroolbark CFA sent their thoughts to the family effected by the fire in what will now be a very challenging time. “Our thoughts are with the homeowner during this difficult time, and we hope for their comfort and recovery.” An outpouring of support also came from the community with thanks being given to the firefighters who helped control the fire. “This was horrible to see on the way to school drop off. I’m glad the occupants and pups were all safe. Thinking of them all. Very distressing for all involved! Great job to all the fire fighters and services involved,” one person said.
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By Mikayla van Loon