Advice issued for grassfire near Maroondah Highway, Maindample

Firefighters have been joined by aerial units in battling a 30ha blaze at Maindample as locals are urgent to stay informed of any change in conditions.

CFA units are responding to a grassfire in steep country near Maindample.

Firefighters are responding to a blaze that covered 30ha at Maindample in the state’s northeast.

A CFA spokesman said eight units responded to reports of the grassfire near the Maroondah Highway at The Paps Walk about 3.10pm.

“Units responded from Mansfield, Barjarg, Bonnie Doon, Maindample, Merton and Goughs Bay-Howes Creek,” the spokesman said.

“Crews discovered a fire in steep country, spanning approximately 30ha.”

The ‘stay informed’ message for Maindample, Howes Creek, Mansfield and Bonnie Doon warned smoke would be visible from nearby towns and roads.

There is no existing threat to communities but people should stay informed and monitor conditions.

People are also asked to keep roads clear for emergency services to respond.

The fire was declared under control about 8.15pm and three units remained on scene on Thursday morning patrolling the scene.

People can stay informed using the VicEmergency app, website or hotline, or tuning into ABC Radio, designated commercial and community radios or Sky News TV.

An advice message was also issued at 2pm for Lima East, Lima South, Nillahcootie and surrounds.

A tree was on fire on the Lightning Ridge Track within the Strathbogie State Forest.

A CFA spokeswoman said units responded from Benalla, Tatong, Lima South, Maindample and Swanpool.

She said the CFA deemed the incident under control shortly before 2.10pm and safe before 2.30pm.

“Aircraft and Forest Fire Management Victoria was on scene in support,” she said.