Emergency Evacuation Ordered in Katamatite Amid Approaching Grassfire
Katamatite, 9 January 2026 – Residents in Katamatite are being urged to evacuate immediately as a fast-moving grassfire approaches the town. The fire, which originated at Yarroweyah, has moved south-easterly and is expected to reach Katamatite within hours. Authorities warn that staying could be life-threatening, with firefighters unable to contain the blaze.
Latest Updates on the Fire
As of 6:28 pm, an emergency warning has been issued for Katamatite, replacing earlier watch and act messages. The grassfire is travelling from Muckatah towards Katamatite and remains uncontrolled. Residents in surrounding areas, including Cobram East, Katunga, Muckatah, Naring, Yarroweyah, and Yarroweyah South, have also been advised to leave immediately. The fire has crossed the Benalla-Tocumwal Road, and road closures are in place, including the Benalla-Tocumwal Road between the Murray Valley Highway at Yarroweyah and Katamatite.
Earlier updates at 5:16 pm noted a prepare to evacuate message for Katamatite, with the fire spreading from Muckatah. At 5:05 pm, a power outage was reported in Cobram, Muckatah, and Yarroweyah, though it is under investigation and not directly linked to the fire. A haystack fire at Settlement Boundary Road, Waaia, is also burning but poses no immediate threat.
The fire spans approximately 9585 hectares and is under the control of the Victorian Country Fire Authority. Relief centres are open at Apex Park in Cobram (43 Campbell Road) and Shepparton Showgrounds (High Street). Residents are advised to seek shelter with friends or family away from the fire and to prepare essentials such as cash, clothing for three days, medicine, phone and chargers, toiletries, important documents, mementos, photos, and pet essentials.
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Fire Origin and Spread | Started at Yarroweyah, moving south-easterly towards Muckatah and Katamatite; uncontrolled, 9585 ha size. |
| Affected Areas | Katamatite, Cobram East, Katunga, Muckatah, Naring, Yarroweyah, Yarroweyah South. |
| Evacuation Status | Emergency warning: Leave immediately; prepare to evacuate if not yet ordered. |
| Relief Centres | Apex Park, Cobram (43 Campbell Road); Shepparton Showgrounds (High Street). |
| Road Closures | Benalla-Tocumwal Road between Murray Valley Highway at Yarroweyah and Katamatite. |
| Weather Conditions | 39°C, broken clouds, wind at 31 km/h in nearby areas. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I receive an evacuation warning?
Act immediately to protect your life. Prepare essentials like cash, clothing for three days, medicine, phone and chargers, toiletries, important documents, mementos, photos, and pet essentials. Leave as soon as ready, heading to friends or family away from the fire or a designated relief centre. Check road closures via VicTraffic or by calling 13 11 70.
Where can I get more information?
Stay updated via the Victorian Department of Health, Bureau of Meteorology, Vic Emergency Website, or ABC Radio. For emergency assistance, contact the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
Is the fire under control?
No, firefighters have been unable to stop the blaze. It is travelling rapidly and poses extreme danger.