Wellesley fire threatens lives and homes

Firefighters battled to bring a bushfire in Wellesley under control on Sunday after lives and homes were threatened by the blaze.

The fire was the second blaze in the area in as many weeks after more than 20ha of bushland was burnt a fortnight ago.

An emergency warning was issued as the fire came close to properties with residents told to leave or get ready to defend.

The warning was downgraded to a warning late on Sunday afternoon when about 100 firefighters helped to successfully bring the blaze under control.

Firefighters were continuing to strengthen containment lines and patrol the area yesterday.

The cause of the fire is not yet known.

More than 55ha of land was burnt as some roads were closed, but firefighters battled hard to make sure Forrest Highway did not have to be blocked off.

Firefighters, including volunteer fire and rescue service, bush fire service and Parks and Wildlife, battled the blaze for several hours after it was reported about 1.40pm.

Aerial support and water bombers were also deployed to the area with helicopters forced to re-fuel at Glen Huon oval in Eaton.

Residents took to social media to share photos showing how close the bushfire came to properties.

An advice alert remained in place yesterday for people in an area bounded by Papalia Court, Ridgeview Way, Wellesley Road North, Marriott Road and Forrest Highway in the Shire of Harvey.

Another blaze in Australind yesterday also kept firefighters busy.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services were monitoring the bushfire near Chrysoberyl View and Carnelian Avenue.