'Intense few days' as keepers care for zoo animals near fire zone
Grampians National Park
Hot, dry, and windy conditions are creating difficult conditions for firefighters battling at least three bushfires across Victoria.
One fire, burning in the Grampians National Park, is of particular concern, having tripled in size within 24 hours.
Hundreds of residents in several towns, including the popular tourist destination Halls Gap, were ordered to evacuate on December 20 as the fire danger escalated.
Just days later, the fire continues to rage, and residents have been told that it is unsafe to return.
Halls Gap is known for many things, including its zoo.
The Halls Gap Zoo took to social media to give an update, writing it had been an "intense" few days.
"This is the view we woke up to this morning. We're so grateful for the stunning beauty that surrounds us here at Halls Gap Zoo, especially after the challenges of the past week," they said.
"Our team has been working tirelessly, and we are happy to report that all animals are safe and being cared for daily by our dedicated keepers."
Halls Gap Zoo has since created a fundraiser describing the fire situation as "devastating".
"These fires not only caused damage to the surrounding environment but also severely impacted our ability to operate and care for our beloved animals," they said.
"Despite the challenges, we have remained committed to their care, but the financial strain has been overwhelming.
"The closure has made it incredibly difficult for us to meet our daily operating costs, and without support, we risk losing the progress we've made."
Victorian Grampians Fire. 21.12.24
The fire in Grampians National Park was quickly closed to the public, which is located about 200 kilometres north-west of Melbourne.
Heavy smoke from the fire continues to blanket the area, with a large plume visible from space.
Victorian Bushfires: Mirranatwa Fire 18/12/24
The National Council for Fire and Emergency Services warned in September of the dangers this fire season may pose.
Over the weekend, the warning became a reality.
Incident Controller Aaron Kennedy said the fires are starting very easily.
Victorian Bushfires: Grampains bushfire 23/12/24
About 400 firefighters have been deployed to the region to help tackle the blaze.
December 16
Melbournians braved the early morning heat today for a dip and exercise as the state prepared for an absolute scorcher.
Kayakers and swimmers jumped into the Yarra as the sun came up and before the mercury threatened to hit over 40-degrees.
Victoria is facing 'dangerous' weather conditions and some parts of the state are expected to soar to 46 degrees.
"It will be a nasty day, we need to make sure we are ready," CFA chief executive Jason Heffernan said.
Melbourne is forecast to hit 41 degrees, making it the hottest December day since 2019.
But the morning heat didn't deter swimmers from getting out and taking a cool dip in the river before the hottest part of the day arrived.
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