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Destructive Winds Batter Victoria, Geelong Cup Postponed

Authorities reported peak gusts of 120 km/h, expecting conditions to ease overnight.

Overview

  • The Bureau of Meteorology issued severe wind warnings for most of the state as a deep low moved across Bass Strait, with widespread gusts of 90–110 km/h and isolated peaks to 120 km/h at Mount Gellibrand and 110 km/h at Mount William.
  • More than 13,500 properties lost power by late afternoon and the State Emergency Service logged over 830 requests for help, largely for fallen trees and building damage.
  • Racing Victoria postponed the remainder of Geelong Cup Day after stewards and emergency services deemed conditions unsafe, evacuating marquees and rescheduling races to Thursday.
  • Transport was disrupted as a fallen tree struck a tram and car in Malvern, Yarra Trams reported line blockages, and V/Line terminated an Echuca–Southern Cross service at Bendigo due to debris on tracks.
  • Power distributors, including Powercor, deployed extra crews and warned of hazards from fallen powerlines, while forecasters said winds would ease from west to east into tonight and Thursday.