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2h ago

One Dead as Victoria Bushfires Scorch Nearly 400,000 Hectares

Authorities warn major blazes could burn for weeks despite cooler conditions.

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LONGWOOD, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 10: Fire-damaged property is seen on January 10, 2026 near Longwood, Australia. Bushfires have burned tens of thousands of hectares in central Victoria, destroying multiple homes and other structures around the towns of Longwood and Ruffy and forcing widespread evacuations under catastrophic fire conditions. (Photo by Jesse Thompson/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Police confirmed human remains were found about 100 metres from a vehicle on Yarck Road at Gobur near Longwood, with the victim yet to be identified.
  • Fires have burned roughly 390,000 to 395,000 hectares across Victoria and destroyed more than 300 structures, including homes and farm buildings.
  • Emergency warnings are concentrated on the Walwa fire near the NSW border and an Otways blaze near Carlisle River, while the Longwood fire has been downgraded to watch and act.
  • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Premier Jacinta Allan announced a $19.5 million recovery package with $1,000 per adult payments and a $10 million fodder program for affected farmers.
  • Thousands of firefighters and more than 70 aircraft remain deployed as total fire bans hold in the North East and North Central districts under ongoing high danger ratings.