Victoria news firefighter dies battling one of three suspicious fires in regional victoria 20240130 p5yz6d.html – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
Advertisement
Advertisement
This was published 2 years ago

Firefighter who died battling suspicious fire in Victoria identified

Rhiannon Tuffield

Powered by

A volunteer firefighter who died while battling one of three suspicious fires in regional Victoria has been remembered for his unparalleled leadership over almost four decades of service.

CFA member Garry Mallen was at one fire at a property on Short Street in Portland, in western Victoria, when he collapsed at 8.30am.

The three fires were reportedly lit between 7am and 7.30am on Camira Street, Short Street and within a bin on the corner of Percy and Gawler Streets, according to police.

Advertisement

READ MORE: 'Blood everywhere': Woman stable after shark attack in Sydney Harbour

Mallen, who was 66, joined the CFA in 1972 as a junior member of the Portland Brigade. CFA

No one was injured in the fires, which are being treated as suspicious.

The Country Fire Authority confirmed the death of Mallen this morning.

Emergency services on scene administered CPR but he sadly died.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to the member's family, friends and colleagues at the Portland brigade," a statement from the CFA read.

"Our wellbeing team is providing support to all involved at this sad time."

It's believed Mallen may have suffered a medical episode and his death is not being treated as suspicious.

Advertisement

READ MORE: Victorian Premier says MP 'won't return' to Labor after sex assault investigation dropped

Mallen, who was 66, joined the CFA in 1972 as a junior member of the Portland Brigade.

In a statement, the CFA said Mallen - a father, husband and grandfather - was an active member of the brigade.

Advertisement
Advertisement

"Those who knew him and worked alongside him speak of his leadership, experience and most importantly his support and willingness to mentor others through their own leadership journey," the CFA said.

"Our hearts are heavy today as we acknowledge Garry's service supporting and protecting his community for over 30 years."

READ MORE: Melbourne tobacco store targeted in ram-raid

WorkSafe will investigate and detectives from the Arson and Explosives Squad will also attend the scene.

Advertisement

Anyone with information is urged to contact police.

email icon

Contact us

Share a tip-off, video or photo with us

Most viewed in Australia

More to explore