The total number of properties destroyed in the Christmas Day bushfire along Australia's Great Ocean Road in Victoria has risen to 103.
Country Fire Authority volunteer fire-fighters take a break while fighting fires which flared in a scenic area along Victoria's Great Ocean Road on Christmas Day, destroying dozens of houses. Photo: AFP
At Wye River, the number of destroyed homes has gone up to 85, while at Separation Creek the number remained at 18.
Fire officials said the majority of the properties lost were holiday homes.
Photo: AAP
The figures were confirmed by Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews as teams fanned out across the fire zone to conduct damage assessments.
Speaking after a community meeting at Apollo Bay, Mr Andrews, who flew over the fire zone, said there were "significant" property losses.
"It's kind of confirmed for us just how hot, just how volatile, just how intense this fire was, burning right to the water's edge," he said.
"Our challenge now is to make sure that we provide those grants, and they're already flowing.
"I'm here to show that all Victorians stand with the communities of Wye River, Sep Creek as well, and others who are doing it very, very tough at the moment."
Government grants of $A1300 will be made available to those who have lost their homes or are unable to return.
Fire in Otway Ranges near Wye River, Victoria Photo: ABC
Mr Andrews said there would be a big rebuilding process in the towns.
"The State Government stands ready to provide whatever support, whatever the resources the council and others need to make sure that we can rebuild and support and empower people through what will be a very challenging process, not for weeks and months but indeed for years."
The Premier also cautioned that the MFB crews had only done an initial sweep through the affected areas.
"We can't be certain those numbers won't further grow based on further assessments," he said.
"'I'm sure you'll all understand it was important to inform the local community first and every effort's being made to get all of Wye River back in there, that is those who've lost homes, to see what damage has been done.
"But that's got to be done safely for residents as well as for those who will escort them back in there."
Smoke rises from a fast-moving bushfire near the Great Ocean Road in Victoria yesterday. Photo: AAP
Earlier authorities said Victoria should "stand proud" that no one died and communities heeded warnings to evacuate.
Hundreds of firefighters and dozens of tankers and aircraft have been battling the blaze, which was sparked by a lightning strike last weekend.
The fire, which has so far burned more than 2,200 hectares, is not yet under control.
An emergency warning remains in effect for Wye River and Separation Creek, and a watch and act advice is current for Kennett River and Grey River.
- ABC
