A Deadly Blaze and a Controversial Question: Could This Fire Have Been Prevented?
January 14, 2026 — 6:00am
A devastating fire ripped through the Longwood region, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. But here's where it gets controversial: could this tragedy have been avoided? The Age has uncovered evidence suggesting the grass along the Hume Freeway, a potential ignition point, was significantly longer than recommended by fire safety guidelines. This, coupled with the ongoing investigation into a truck trailer as a possible source of sparks, raises serious questions about fire prevention measures.
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) clearly outlines that grass on road verges should be maintained at a maximum height of 10 centimetres during high fire danger periods. However, our reporters observed dry, overgrown grass exceeding this limit along the Hume Freeway near Longwood just days before the fire erupted. This seemingly small detail could have had a significant impact on the fire's spread.
Emergency services initially pointed to a trailer throwing sparks as the cause, but Emergency Management Commissioner Tim Wiebusch clarified that arson detectives are still investigating multiple leads. "The truck trailer is just one avenue being explored by Victoria Police's arson squad," Wiebusch stated. "At this stage, the cause remains undetermined."
Chief CFA officer Jason Heffernan acknowledged the extreme weather conditions, but emphasized the importance of fuel reduction. While he stated that under such intense heat and wind, even freshly mowed lawns might have burned, he also highlighted the role of roadside vegetation in fire spread. "Fires can travel rapidly along roadsides, just as they do through bushland and paddocks," he explained.
CFA Volunteer Group vice president Brad Marson, a seasoned firefighter who battled the Natimuk blaze, was unequivocal in his assessment: "Longer grass is hazardous, without a shadow of a doubt." He pointed out that even with freshly mowed verges, fires can spark from popped tires or other road incidents. "Keeping the grass short simply reduces the risk," he said. Marson described the Hume Freeway verge as poorly maintained, with excessive fuel load, making fire control more challenging.
CFA guidelines recommend strategies like pull-over lanes and slashed verges to mitigate roadside fire risks. While slashed grass burns at a similar rate to standing grass, the flame height is significantly reduced, making suppression easier if tackled promptly. However, the effectiveness of slashing diminishes over time due to regrowth and weather conditions.
The Longwood fire, which ravaged 137,000 hectares, destroyed 90 homes, and claimed the life of Maxwell Hobson, has reignited debates about fire prevention and resource allocation. During a recent media event, Premier Jacinta Allan faced angry accusations of CFA underfunding from affected residents. Allan denied these claims, stating that spreading misinformation could further distress fire-traumatized communities.
This tragedy prompts a crucial question: Are we doing enough to prevent such disasters? The Victorian government's 2013 bushfire risk assessment for arterial roads is currently undergoing its first major update, acknowledging the need to address changes in the road network, environment, and the impact of recent disasters like the 2019-20 bushfires and 2022 floods.
The installation of wire rope barriers along country roads, while lifesaving, has also been flagged by the CFA as potentially hindering vegetation management. The Department of Transport and Planning, CFA, Victoria Police, and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action share responsibility for managing these risks, with local councils overseeing local roads.
As investigations continue into the Longwood fire's origin, one thing is clear: we must critically examine our fire prevention strategies. Are our guidelines sufficient? Are resources being allocated effectively? And most importantly, how can we better protect our communities from the devastating impact of wildfires? These are questions that demand honest answers and urgent action. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
