Across the Mallee, rehabilitation works have now been completed at all major bushfire sites from the 2025–26 fire season, marking a key milestone in the region’s recovery.
More than 63,000 hectares burned across the district, including fires at Baring and Colignan, as well as across Wyperfeld National Park at North–South Track, Boinka and Freeway Track. While these fires were successfully contained, suppression efforts required extensive control lines to help stop the spread of fire and protect communities, infrastructure and environmental values.
From response to recovery
Control lines play a critical role during bushfire suppression, providing safe access and helping slow or stop fire spread. However, without rehabilitation, these temporary earthworks can leave lasting impacts on the landscape.
In recent months, Forest Fire Management Victoria crews and contractors have completed rehabilitation works across all major firegrounds.
In total, crews restored approximately 183 kilometres of control lines, including around 70 kilometres constructed during the Boinka fire alone.
Protecting the landscape and cultural values
Rehabilitation is about more than tidying up after fire – it reduces long-term impacts and supports natural recovery.
Works included reshaping disturbed ground, returning vegetation and organic material to the landscape and stabilising access points to reduce erosion and prevent unauthorised vehicle access.
These activities help to:
- reduce erosion and dust
- limit the spread of weeds and pest animals
- protect cultural heritage values
- support regeneration of native vegetation.
Working together for recovery
This program was delivered through close collaboration between operational crews, planners, contractors and Traditional Owner representatives, ensuring works were completed safely, effectively and with respect for cultural heritage values.
Completion of these works marks the transition from emergency response to long-term recovery, supporting restoration of fire-affected landscapes while reducing future risks.
Page last updated: 07/07/26