General News
21 January, 2026
CFA tackles Carlisle River fires
THE Carlisle River Fire Brigade has commended the extraordinary efforts of firefighters and support crews following recent fires in the area, while urging the community to remain vigilant as conditions continue to change in the weeks ahead.
Country Fire Authority (CFA) brigades worked closely with Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) to protect homes, farmland and bushland throughout Carlisle River.
For many local volunteer firefighters, the response came with an added emotional toll, as they balanced protecting the community while worrying about their own families and properties.
Carlisle River Fire Brigade captain Rob May said crews faced incredibly challenging circumstances.
“Our members were jumping on the truck to protect the community while knowing their own homes were at risk,” he said.
“That’s a hard position to be in, but they didn’t hesitate to turn out and help.”
Volunteer firefighter Tyrone Benson highlighted the critical role of aerial firefighting in protecting his property.
“We had constant support from the FFMV and CFA ground crews and I’m certain we would have lost everything without the water-bombing crews – our home, our sheds, everything – they were incredible,” he said.
Despite the intensity of the fires, there have been no reports of homes lost in the Carlisle River area.
“Based on available information we are confident that no houses have been lost,” Mr May said.
“That comes down to the massive effort from Forest Fire Management Victoria, CFA crews from near and far, and all the support staff working behind the scenes to keep things running.”
While the immediate threat has eased, the brigade warns the danger is not over.
“We’re not out of the woods yet,” Mr May said.
“People need to keep checking their properties and the wider Carlisle River area, especially on hot and windy days.
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“Burnt ground can still flare up with very little warning.”
Looking ahead, the brigade is focused on strengthening its ability to respond to future fires and has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for an ultralight fire vehicle.
“An ultralight is a small 4WD fire truck, like a Ranger or Land Cruiser, that can get into places our bigger tankers just can’t,” Mr May said.
“It carries water, foam and equipment and is designed for quick first attack in rough terrain.
“A vehicle like this would have made a big difference during these fires, and it would really help us now as we continue monitoring burnt areas over the coming weeks.”
The brigade is encouraging community members and supporters to contribute if they are able, helping ensure local firefighters have the right tools to protect lives and property into the future.
The Carlisle River Fire Brigade is also actively seeking new volunteers.
First lieutenant Krystal May said the recent fires highlighted the pressure placed on a small group of volunteers.
“We’re really keen to speak to any locals who might be interested in volunteering with our brigade,” she said.
“We always need firefighters getting on trucks, especially over the summer months.
“These fires have shown just how much pressure is placed on a small group of volunteer firefighters.
“It’s not just the initial response either – our brigade will continue supporting the community for weeks to come.
“We need more people to help spread the load.”
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