Locals in Vic bushfire zone return home

Firefighters have contained most of a bushfire in central Victoria that was sparked by a reduction burn that got out of control in Lancefield.

The ruins of garden utensils near Lancefield north of Melbourne

Firefighters have gained control of a bushfire in Victoria that was sparked by a reduction burn. (AAP)

Residents in a bushfire zone in central Victoria have been allowed to return home after firefighters gained control of a blaze that was sparked by a reduction burn that got out of control.

Homes are no longer under threat from the Lancefield fire, which is now 90 per cent contained, the Country Fire Authority said on Saturday.

The bushfire, which began on Tuesday after it jumped containment lines during hot and windy conditions, has burnt through 3000 hectares and destroyed four houses, 23 sheds, two vehicles and farm equipment.

The destruction tally was downgraded on Saturday from five houses to four houses as fire investigators examined more burned out sites.

Firefighters had worked overnight to extend control lines around the fire's 61km perimeter after gaining the upper hand on Friday.

Saturday's milder conditions have also made it possible for crews to work on control lines.

Premier Daniel Andrews has said residents have a right to be angry about how the Lancefield burn got out of control and has promised an independent review.

Hundreds of firefighters and up to 22 aircraft have battled blazes this week, with NSW providing two large airtankers to help with the Lancefield fire.


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Source: AAP



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