CFA warning after machinery sparks Glenrowan fire

Mar 12, 2025

Farmers are warned of the risks when using machinery as fire danger remains high. Photo by Contributed

CFA is reminding landowners, farmers and machinery operators to remain alert to the fire risk this autumn after a bushfire near Glenrowan last week.

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The fire, sparked by a mower, burned about 26 hectares and at its peak prompted a Watch and Act warning for residents.

Thirty-two CFA appliances from multiple brigades responded alongside Forest Fire Management Victoria, with air attack support deployed to help slow the fire’s spread.

CFA fire investigator Daryl Owen said the Glenrowan fire was a stark reminder of how easily machinery can ignite a fire in dry conditions.

“If you’re using machinery, it’s very important to assess the conditions beforehand and take steps to prevent sparks,” Mr Owen said.

“Working in the early morning, maintaining your equipment and having firefighting tools on hand can make all the difference.”

CFA District 23 assistant chief fire officer Steve Contessa said fire danger remains a concern as autumn begins.

“Even with summer behind us, dry grass and warm conditions mean fires can still spread rapidly,” Mr Contessa said.

“The Glenrowan fire showed how much effort it takes to contain a fast-moving grassfire once it spreads into difficult terrain.

“We urge machinery operators to be mindful of their surroundings and take every precaution to prevent fires like this from starting.”

Don’t use machinery on high-risk days, unless:

It is free from faults and mechanical defects that could cause an outbreak of fire, and is fitted with a spark arrester in working order, a turbocharger or exhaust aspirated air cleaner.
It carries fire suppression equipment comprising either at least one knapsack spray pump, in working order, fully charged with water, with a capacity of not less than nine litres; or at least one water (stored pressure) fire extinguisher, in working order, fully charged with water and maintained at the correct pressure, with a capacity of not less than nine litres.

For more information on fire restrictions and safe machinery use during the Fire Danger Period, visit CFA’s website.