22 Feb 2009

More bushfire victims found

6:27 am on 22 February 2009

The remains of more victims of the Victoria bushfires have been found in areas previously searched.

Several sets of remains were recovered late on Friday at fire sites in Marysville, Kinglake and Hazeldene, north of Kinglake after an order was issued by State Coroner Jennifer Coate under Section 40 of the Coroner's Act.

At least 209 people died in the bushfires in several areas of the state on 7 February.

The coroner has ordered tighter security at bushfire sites. More than 1800 houses have been destroyed.

Deputy Police Commissioner Kieran Walshe says the new powers give police authority to go back and re-search previous areas.

Owners of the properties are prevented from starting any clean-up, or removing any rubble of destroyed houses until the police are satisfied that area has been thoroughly searched.

Four fires continue to burn out of control. Hotter conditions are forecast for Monday.