Source: VIC Emergency

Watch and Act - Bushfire - Prepare to Leave

Issued Today at 6:20 PM.

This Watch and Act message is being issued for Barongarook, Barongarook West, Birregurra, Coram, Elliminyt, Gerangamete, Irrewillipe East, Larpent, Tulloh, Yeo, Yeodene.

It is strongly recommended you Prepare to Leave.

There is a bushfire at Carlisle River. The bushfire is not yet under control.

The bushfire is travelling from Gellibrand in a north-easterly direction towards Barongarook.
Embers are starting small fires ahead of the main fire.

Prepare to Leave immediately. Leave as soon as you are ready, as roads will become busy as people leave.

What you should do:
Monitor the situation. Increased wind speed, change in wind direction, smoke or poor visibility can mean the situation is worsening.
Protect yourself and your family.
If you are not prepared, leave now. Don't wait until it is too late - leave early.
If you are away from home, do not return.
If you are leaving, pack:
Cash
Clothing for three days
Medicine for three days
Phone and chargers
Toiletries
Important documents
Meaningful items and photos
Pet essentials, including leash and carriers.
Check on your neighbours if it is safe.

Check the VicTraffic website for road closures.

Leave if the situation changes or you feel unsafe.

Where to go:
Friends or family away from the fire.
Consider roads may become busy closer to the time of impact.
Impacts in your area:
Check the VicTraffic website (traffic.transport.vic.gov.au) or call 13 11 70 for road closures.
Smoke may be visible in the area
This message was issued by Forest Fire Management Victoria.

The next update is expected by 24/01/2026 09:30 pm or as the situation changes.

Use multiple sources to stay informed:
www.emergency.vic.gov.au
VicEmergency Hotline - freecall 1800 226 226
VicEmergency app
Facebook or Twitter (#VicFires)
ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
Accessibility:
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
For information in other languages, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service for assistance and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.

CFA Current Bushfires