Out-of-control fire destroys old defence site

Firefighters have battled an out-of-control fire at an old munitions factory north-west of Melbourne.

Authorities were called to the disused factory in Maribyrnong after a grass fire spread to the building.

It’s unclear what sparked the grass fire.

Fire crews are unsure of what is burning inside the building and are awaiting advice from the Department of Defence before mounting an internal attack.

A lack of water has also hindered the efforts of firefighters, who were forced to shutdown surrounding roads to access fire hydrants.

There is no threat to the community but residents are being urged to stay informed and monitor conditions.

Meanwhile, an emergency warning has been issued for the rural Victorian community of Myrrhee with residents urged to stay indoors.

A grass fire broke out at Myrrhee, near Wangaratta, in the state’s north east earlier this afternoon.

A spokesman for the Country Fire Authority said it is deploying 36 tankers and numerous aircraft to tackle the blaze.

“Residents there should take shelter indoors. It’s too late to leave,” he said.

Fifty-four properties are currently affected by the blaze which is moving in a north-easterly direction.