FRV and CFA firefighters and police responded to several grass fires near Broken River Dve in Shepparton on Melbourne Cup Day. Photos: Kate Walters
Photo by
Kate Walters
Three children have been charged after allegedly lighting several fires in Shepparton on Melbourne Cup Day.
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Fire Rescue Victoria and CFA responded at 3.23pm on Tuesday, November 5, after callers to 000 reported grass and scrub fires spreading near Broken River Dve.
Firefighters arrived on the scene within minutes.
Incident controller Ryan Kervin said there were at least six separately lit fires spreading in multiple directions.
He said two separate fire grounds were declared as control points, with fire burning on both sides of the Broken River.
Fires were burning on both sides of the Broken River in south Shepparton and Kialla areas.
Photo by
Kate Walters
Victoria Police said three children were allegedly seen leaving the scene.
Police found and arrested them shortly after.
A 14-year-old Mooroopna boy, a 13-year-old Shepparton girl and a 12-year-old Shepparton boy have been charged with intentionally or recklessly causing a bushfire.
It is alleged about 3.2ha (eight acres) of land was burnt.
Two FRV pumpers and 15 CFA tankers attended the scene, which was deemed under control at 4.51pm, before it was handed over to Forest Fire Management at 6.30pm to mop up and black out the area.
A community warning to stay informed was issued in the region.
The children will appear at a children’s court at a later date.
Police have reminded the public they will investigate and take action to catch those responsible when a fire is deemed suspicious, whether it was deliberately or recklessly started.
It is alleged more than 3ha of land was burnt.
Photo by
Kate Walters
Anyone found guilty of recklessly or intentionally causing a bushfire faces a penalty of up to 15 years’ imprisonment.
Lighting a fire on a total fire ban day can attract a fine of up to $46,000 or up to two years in prison.
Police said the community played an important role in the prevention of bushfires and was key in reporting reckless or suspicious behaviour.
Police wish to speak to anyone who witnesses concerning behaviour in relation to fires, or anyone who has been told about this behaviour taking place.
∎ Anyone who witnesses suspicious or reckless behaviour as it is happening should call 000 and anyone with non-urgent information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au
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