A TREE falling onto powerlines has been identified as the official cause of a blaze which burned almost 150 hectares of grassland near Ballarat in March last year.
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It has been confirmed that the blaze which began at Sago Hill Road on March 30 was started when a tree fell onto powerlines in winds gusting upwards of 85km/h.
A statement from Energy Safe Victoria, sent to Australian Community Media said:
"The fire at Sago Hill Rd, Bunkers Hill on March 30 occurred when a tree was blown into powerlines in wind gusts which were up to 80-85 km/h.
"The tree was compliant prior to the incident, meaning it was outside the minimum clearance zone."
When contacted on Monday, police confirmed the investigation into the blaze was no longer ongoing.
The Bunkers Hill fire crossed 134 hectares of land heading in a south-easterly direction towards Smythes Creek before being brought under control before the wind change pushed it towards Ballarat.
Three people were taken to hospital as a result due to smoke inhalation, while three firefighters required assistance from paramedics.
The closure of the investigation comes as Victoria's energy regulator slammed Powercor's wood pole inspection and replacement policy, urging the electricity company to do better.
READ THE FULL REPORT: Energy Safe Victoria slams Powercor in report
The report said Powercor is to now develop an improvement plan incorporating all recommendations and associated initiatives, and submit it to the regulator no later than 5pm on February 28 this year.
A spokesman said the longer report had been replaced because it contained sensitive information.
In 2019 Powercor committed to replacing 2200 poles.
Australian Community Media has a copy of the detailed report which indicates state Energy Minister Lily D'Ambrosio had seen the report and provided feedback.
Ms D'Ambrosio said electricity distribution networks were on notice - they must maintain and replace their poles and wires to keep Victorians safe.
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