Otways parks closed due to fire risk

As the predicted heatwave moves across the state, Forest Fire Management has closed two popular parks during today’s declared period of Extreme fire danger.

The Great Otway National Park and Otway Forest Park in the Eastern Otways (east of Lorne-Deans Marsh Road) will be closed until further notice.

A full list of park closures can be found at https://www2.delwp.vic.gov.au/media-centre/park-and-forest-closures

A Total Fire Ban is in place, making it illegal to light any fires, including campfires and all barbecues, both solid and liquid fuelled, as well as unconventional heat sources such as rotisseries and portable grills.

Andrew Morrow, FFMVic Deputy Chief Fire Officer, said the conditions are unpredictable, and urged visitors to leave the parks “early in the day”.

“We’re expecting extremely hot, dry and windy conditions. If a fire starts and takes hold, it can be uncontrollable, unpredictable and fast-moving.”