Houses destroyed in Colignan bushfire
A destructive bushfire in Colignan, a rural town in north-western Victoria, has left several properties damaged and at least two houses confirmed destroyed, according to local authorities and verified reports. The fire, which rapidly spread due to dry conditions and strong winds, has devastated parts of the region, causing significant distress to residents and prompting emergency services to respond in force.
The incident began on Tuesday afternoon, with authorities issuing an emergency warning for residents in and around the Colignan area. The fire, which is suspected to have started in bushland near the Murray River, spread quickly, fuelled by high temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds. Emergency warnings from the Country Fire Authority (CFA) urged residents to evacuate or seek shelter immediately as the firefront approached, particularly in areas around Colignan, Nangiloc, and nearby smaller communities.
Mildura Rural City Council confirmed that at least two residential properties had been destroyed by the fire. However, the full extent of property damage is still being assessed as authorities work to access affected areas. Early reports also indicate that outbuildings, sheds, and farm equipment have been damaged or destroyed across several properties. The CFA has not ruled out the possibility of further structural damage, though an official tally has yet to be released.
Residents who were evacuated described scenes of chaos as the fast-moving fire forced them to leave their homes. One local, speaking to reporters, recounted being surrounded by smoke while attempting to gather belongings before leaving. Others noted that the fire’s speed left little time for preparation, with some choosing to leave immediately upon receiving alerts from emergency services.
Agricultural losses are a growing concern, with the Colignan region known for citrus farming and other horticultural crops. While no official estimate of agricultural damage has been provided at this time, preliminary observations suggest that orchards, irrigation infrastructure, and farming operations in the affected area are likely to have suffered significant impacts. Authorities have emphasised that damage assessments are ongoing.
Local and state firefighting resources were deployed to contain the blaze, with more than 30 fire appliances, including water bombers, involved in the response effort. Firefighters faced challenging conditions due to the speed and intensity of the fire, compounded by the remote location of some affected properties. By Wednesday morning, containment lines were established, though the fire was still not entirely under control. Crews remain on the ground, supported by heavy machinery to strengthen containment efforts and prevent further spread.
No fatalities or serious injuries have been reported in connection with the fire as of the latest updates. Ambulance Victoria confirmed that several individuals were assessed for minor injuries, including smoke inhalation, but no one required hospitalisation. Emergency services have commended the quick response of residents in heeding evacuation orders, which likely helped minimise the risk to human life.
Authorities are also investigating the cause of the fire, though as of Wednesday, no official determination has been made. Multiple agencies, including the CFA and Victoria Police, are involved in the investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that weather conditions played a significant role in the fire’s rapid escalation. However, it remains unclear whether the fire was triggered by natural causes, human activity, or equipment failure.
Environmental concerns have also been raised, as the fire has burned through bushland and agricultural areas, potentially causing long-lasting damage to the local ecosystem. The Murray River region is home to diverse flora and fauna, some of which may face ongoing challenges as a result of the fire. Wildlife rescue and recovery efforts are expected to begin once conditions allow safe access to the affected areas.
Relief efforts have been mobilised to support displaced residents, with evacuation centres established in neighbouring towns. Community groups and local charities have also begun collecting donations of food, clothing, and other essential items to distribute to those affected. Mildura Rural City Council has encouraged residents in need of assistance to reach out for support, emphasising the importance of prioritising safety and wellbeing in the aftermath of the disaster.
Premier Jacinta Allan expressed sympathy for those affected by the fire and praised the efforts of emergency responders. In a statement to the media, she emphasised the importance of preparedness during bushfire season, particularly as summer approaches and the risk of additional fires remains high. Authorities have urged residents across regional Victoria to remain vigilant, monitor emergency warnings, and have bushfire survival plans in place.
The Colignan bushfire comes as much of Australia braces for a potentially high-risk bushfire season this year, driven by rising temperatures and above-average dryness in many regions. Meteorologists have warned that conditions are conducive to more frequent and intense bushfires, particularly in areas with high vegetation loads. Local councils and emergency services have ramped up public information campaigns to prepare communities for the increased risk.
Emergency services have reiterated that access to accurate and timely information is critical during emergencies. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels, including the VicEmergency app, the CFA website, and local ABC radio broadcasts.
In the coming days, authorities plan to continue assessing damage, providing relief to affected residents, and working towards a full containment of the fire. Long-term recovery efforts are expected to include rebuilding damaged infrastructure, supporting agricultural recovery, and addressing any ongoing environmental impacts.
This story is developing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
References:
1. Sunraysia Daily – Original reporting on Colignan bushfire and property damage.
2. Country Fire Authority (CFA) – Official updates on firefighting efforts and emergency warnings.
3. Mildura Rural City Council – Information on relief efforts and local impacts.
4. Ambulance Victoria – Reports on injuries and health-related responses.
5. ABC News Victoria – Coverage of bushfire season risks and related developments.