Gold fossickers have been warned to be alert for potentially dangerous finds in the Bendigo area after two antique grenades sparked a bomb scare in the area.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Five roads were shut down around Bendigo cemetery on Saturday after two women discovered the grenades about 9.30am.
Fifteen residents were evacuated from nearby Connolly and Wirrana streets, and the public was stopped from entering the cemetery as police assessed the threat.
The grenades were later found to be 36-millimetre drill grenades, with no explosives inside.
The relics of war were thought to have been buried by veterans or their families in the aftermath of World War Two.
Acting Sergeant Grant Polglase said fossickers should be aware of potentially dangerous items buried in the area.
"Everyone can come back in, but I do say to be aware that there could be more situated out there when you're fossicking or gold detecting or whatever, so keep an eye out for them," he said.
"It's always better to be safe than sorry."
Despite the potentially explosive discovery, police were eager to ensure that there was no risk to public safety from the two grenades. They urged anyone who finds similar items to not touch them, and contact Bendigo police.
Sergeant Mick Delaney said police had the public's safety at front of mind.