Type Status Location Last Updated
Watch and Act - Fire - Prepare to Evacuate Moderate Barwon Downs, Forrest, Murroon, Yaugher, Barramunga, Gerangamete, Kawarren, Pennyroyal, Yeodene 01/10/2026
This Watch and Act message is being issued for Barramunga, Barwon Downs, Forrest, Gerangamete, Kawarren, Murroon, Pennyroyal, Yaugher, Yeodene.
  • It is strongly recommended that you Prepare to Evacuate.
  • There is a bushfire at Gerangamete. The bushfire is not yet under control.
  • The bushfire is travelling from Gerangamete towards Forrest.
  • The fire is expected to impact Forrest Township at 4pm.
  • A wind change is expected at about 12pm, which will cause the fire to change directions towards Forest Township. Conditions can become very dangerous and unpredictable.
  • If you choose to stay, emergency services may not be able to help you. 
  • This Watch and Act message replaces the Advice issued at 1.06pm.
Prepare to evacuate immediately. Leave as soon as you are ready, as roads will become busy as people leave.
What you should do:

How to evacuate:

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 VicRoads website for road closures.

Leave immediately when you are ready. Don’t wait to be told when to leave.

Where to go:
  • Friends or family away from the fire.
Directions and routes:
  • The safest evacuation route is Birregurra-Forest Road.
  • Consider roads may become busy closer to the time of impact.
Transport:
  • The following transport options are available: Private vehicle.
Evacuation assistance:
  • If you need assistance to evacuate, call 000.
Impacts in your area:
Sections of the following roads are Closed: Colac-Forest Road, Colac-Forest Road, Forrest-Apollo Bay Road, Birregurra-Forrest Road and Seven Bridges Road.,
This message was issued by Forest Fire Management Victoria.

The next update is expected by 1.00pm or as the situation changes.

Use multiple sources to stay informed:

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 on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.