Tuesday, 13 January, 2026
Smoke hits Dandenongs, causing concern
DEECA seeks federal approval for bushfire plan
Melbourne’s water storage dips below 75 per cent
Real estate liftout inside
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A Star News Group Publication
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Crisis remains as fires still rage
Victoria on alert Victoria still faces widespread devastation as catastrophic bushfires rage across the state. The Longwood blaze in northern Victoria and the Mount Lawson fire on the NSW border continue to burn uncontrolled, destroying homes, schools, and livestock. The Warburton area also faced a fire sparked by an exploding E-bike battery, quickly contained thanks to local CFA efforts. In total, more than 350,000 hectares have burned, with hundreds of properties lost. Statewide fire danger reached extreme to catastrophic levels on Friday 9 January. Temperatures in the Yarra Ranges soared above 40s, with gusty winds and dry lightning heightening fire risk. A total fire ban was declared across Victoria, and multiple parks, including Dandenong Ranges National Park and Warrandyte State Park, were closed for public safety. Authorities urged residents to act early, evacuate if needed, and avoid congestion on key roads. Local responses varied, with some, like Tecoma resident Tanya, chose early evacuation for her family and pets, while others, such as Yarra Junction’s Angela Jade, stayed to safeguard livestock, emphasising the need to keep roads clear for those in immediate danger. Healesville property owner Cindy De Luca described the emotional toll of seeing nearby farms destroyed while her own property survived. Authorities and community groups stressed preparation and vigilance.
CFA and Forest Fire Management crews have been conducting aggressive fire suppression, while DEECA continues strategic forest management planning to reduce bushfire risk while protecting native flora and fauna. Public bushfire prep sessions are under way in the Dandenong Ranges, reinforcing the need for residents to stay informed and ready for rapidly changing conditions. Victoria’s bushfire crisis underscores the relentless dangers of extreme weather, the importance of preparedness, and the difficult choices residents face when deciding whether to stay or evacuate. Lilydale opened a relief centre at Lilydale High School, offering beds, a kids’ area, tea and coffee, and animal housing, with additional support from Yarra Ranges Council, The Salvation Army, and Animal Aid. For larger vehicles, the Lilydale Recreation Reserve provided extra space. Evacuation warnings continued across Marysville, Narbethong, Castella, and Kinglake, as authorities anticipated shifting winds and dangerous conditions. Residents were advised to remain off mountain areas until risks, including falling trees and lightning, passed, and to avoid congesting roads needed for emergency crews. These events highlight the importance of preparation, vigilance, and community support as Victoria faces one of its most severe bushfire crises in recent years. Read more on pages 3-6
L-R: Tayla McMillan and Josie Bamford are ready to make their mark on the AFLW competition. (Jordan Sacchetta/AFL Photos)
Friends soon to be rivals By Callum Ludwig Tayla McMillan and Josie Bamford are the two standout players from the Hills, ready to shine in the AFLW in 2026. Boronia local, Ms McMillan was drafted by her childhood club Carlton with pick 34 after leading the Eastern Ranges to a premiership and earning All-Australian honours. A tough inside midfielder, she describes her draft moment as a “dream come true,” with her whole family being lifelong
Blues supporters. Meanwhile, Josie Bamford’s rise from Bayswater to Ferntree Gully, and now Collingwood, has been nothing short of meteoric. Drafted at pick 29, Ms Bamford, who initially played as an inside midfielder and wing, now brings her high-jump athleticism to the ruck/forward role. She’s excited to debut and share the field with her best friend, Georgia Knight, at the Pies. Read more on page 33
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