The State Government has praised the actions of local CFA volunteers who stopped the Black Saturday fire from ripping through the homes of South Morang and Mill Park.

While most of the firefighting action was focused on the deadly blaze in Kinglake, Black Saturday flames, aided by strong wind, crossed the Plenty River and landed in Plenty Gorge Park, sparking 20-meter high flames that threatened residential homes.

It took two hours and nine CFA trucks to contain the blaze. A fortunate wind change stopped the fire from reaching nearby homes. Firefighters then remained for 12 hours to mop up any remaining spot fires.

South Morang CFA volunteer, Captain Lindsay McHugh said it was fortunate the fire didn't spread further to nearby homes. "The conditions of the day were like a bonfire," he said.
"We had to pull some trucks from Whittlesea to race here. We were very concerned because the park was very close to urban areas."

Environment and Climate Change Minister, Gavin Jenninga, visited the fire ground last Monday. He said the incident proves bush fires can strike urban communities. "These terrible fires have shown once again that we need to take every precaution against bushfires, no matter where you live in Victoria." he said.

Mr Jennings said Parks Victorias taken preventative steps to protect the park through strategically placed fire breaks. "Every body needs a fire plan," he said.

Source: Whittlesea Leader