Victoria Police investigate arson as Marong grass fires spread with hot wind

Police are hunting an arsonist following two separate fires which they believe were lit deliberately. Find out what police suspect happened.

A firebug is suspected of starting at least two grass fires at Marong on Monday afternoon.

County Fire Authority crews extinguished both fires.

Victoria Police have taken over the investigation.

The first fire began shortly after 3pm on the side of the Calder Highway and the second fire started next to Lyndale Road, just after 4pm.

Hot winds and days without rain have been increasing the fire risk in central Victoria, despite recent floods topping up underground water reserves.

A Victoria Police spokeswoman described the events a “series of small fires”.

“No one was injured and no structures were damaged,” she said.

“At this stage the fires are being treated as suspicious.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.