Three people are confirmed dead in the state as a result of bushfires this season. Emergency Services Minister Lisa Neville confirmed yesterday his death was related to the bushfires, following a police investigation. Mick Roberts, 67, from Buchan and Maramingo Creek timber worker Fred Becker were also killed while battling bushfires this summer. More than 400 homes have been destroyed as the fires rage across East Gippsland and the state's northeast. More than 1.2 million hectares have been scorched in fires across the state, with 12 still burning.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 08, 2020 20:37 UTC