Crews responded to a car fire on Frenchmans Lane, Magpie, about 6pm last night.

Later that night, a car, which police confirmed was stolen, was set alight in the state forest at Glen Park, with firefighters called just after 11pm.

It was fully engulfed when firefighters responded. The car was completely destroyed.

Firefighters were called to a third car fire near the Wendouree West Soccer Facility at Holly Grove, about 1.30am.

Crews were dispatched again just after 7.30am this morning, to a fourth car fire on Brittain St, Mount Clear. The car was engulfed in flames near the pine plantation and the Ballarat Gold Mine.

Then, just after 8am firefighters responded to a fifth car fire on Grandlee Rd, Wendouree, near the Walsh Industrial Estate.

Thick black smoke was seen billowing from the car when firefighters arrived. It was completely gutted.

David Mounier, senior station officer at Ballarat City Fire Brigade, said the car fires were an unnecessary burden on resources.

"It's just unnecessary for us. We need to attend them but they are unnecessary.

"These people are destroying other people's property. It's always bad but especially at this time of year, to leave someone without a car. Even if they do have insurance, they are left significantly out of pocket."

He said the incidents also exposed firefighters and other responders to harmful chemicals when they attend a car fire.

The fires are deemed suspicious and police are investigating. If you have any information about any of the incidents, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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