It took a combined effort from the CFA and Forest Fire Victoria to control the fire as it burned through 10 hectares of state forest land.  

Emergency services were first called to the area at 11.30am after a report of rising dark smoke. 

The blaze quickly became out-of-control, spreading across the dry conditions in short order.

Two fire-bombing aircrafts were brought in from Stawell, dumping water at the head of the blaze to assist ground crews fighting the fires.

CFA Region 15 Operation Duty Officer Gavin Hope spoke from the smoldering remains of the blaze about the brilliant effort of the firefighters on scene.

“It’s fairly calm now because of the great job done by those here throughout the day,” he said.

“We had to wait a bit longer for aerial support due to (Ballarat’s) choppers being currently out of commission, but other than that we had things well and truly under control.”

Fire investigators are looking into the cause of the incident, however Mr Hope said it appeared to be accidental.

“The public needs to please remember to make sure you thoroughly extinguish your camp fires. Don’t just wait for it to go out – douse it with water, turn it over, be safe.”

Firefighters had to keep a lookout for some additional dangers below as they fought the inferno.

“Out in a fairly remote area like this there are a lot of old mine shafts, so we had to be careful not to need a rescue on top of the blaze,” Mr Hope said.

The incident took place on Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning land, far away from properties or businesses.

2.10pm: Firefighters have stopped the spread of the fire and say it does not pose a threat.

A message from Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) says the fire is no longer spreading, although it is not yet fully under control.

There is currently no threat to nearby communities, although people should stay informed and monitor conditions, say DELWP.

Smoke is still visible in the area, while emergency vehicles are expected to be around for some time.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area.

1pm: Firefighters are continuing to fight the blaze, which is estimated to have burned about 20 hectares.

It is listed as being four kilometres to the south-east of Scarsdale.

12.05pm: An advice message has been posted for people in the Newtown/Scarsdale/Smythesdale area.

The message says there is a bushfire in the vicinity of Victoria Road, Scarsdale that is not yet under control.

11.40am: Firefighters are tackling a blaze in difficult terrain near Scarsdale.

At least 10 CFA units are fighting the grass and scrub fire, which was first reported about 11.15am.

A large column of smoke can be seen in the area.

The fire is burning in scrubs near Woodland Drive, Corio Dam Road and Victoria Road area.

The approximate location of the fire.

It is understood air support has been requested to help fight the fire.

It is not yet known what caused the blaze.

More to come.

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