UPDATE: Wind change has moved through + temperatures easing — Boinka (Big Desert) & Colignan fires

A wind change has now come through the Mildura district, with winds swinging around and a noticeable drop in temperature compared to the peak heat earlier today. The Bureau of Meteorology’s detailed forecast for Mildura shows the wind turning westerly then south-south-westerly through the evening, while temperatures ease from around 45°C late afternoon down into the low 30s later tonight. 

Even with that slight cooling, conditions can still be dangerous and unpredictable — particularly with damaging wind gusts forecast across Victoria today. BoM advice warns of damaging gusts around 90km/h, with the potential for up to 110km/h in thunderstorms/elevated areas. 

Jade Benham MP has also shared a video update urging locals to stay alert, keep checking official warnings, and be ready to act as conditions shift.

Boinka / Big Desert fire — WATCH & ACT (Prepare to Leave)

VicEmergency’s current warning remains Watch & Act – Prepare to Leave for Baring, Big Desert, Boinka, Linga, Patchewollock, Torrita, Underbool, Walpeup. 

Latest official advice includes:

• The fire is south of Boinka and not yet under control.  
• The warning notes the wind change is expected to push the fire towards the north-east, and conditions can become very dangerous and unpredictable.  
• Firefighters have not been able to stop the fire.  
• Relief centre: Blackburn Park, Farrell Street, Ouyen.  
• Next update expected by 7:20pm or as conditions change.  

If you’re in or near the Watch & Act area: prepare to leave early. Don’t wait until visibility drops, embers arrive, or roads become congested. 

Colignan / Kulkyne / Hattah — ADVICE (Stay Informed)

For Colignan, Hattah and Kulkyne, the current level remains Advice – Stay Informed. 

Official info at last update:

• The bushfire at Colignan is not yet under control.  
• It is travelling from Brown Road, Colignan in a south-easterly direction towards Raak Track in Hattah-Kulkyne National Park.  
• Smoke may be visible from nearby communities and roads.  
• Next update expected by 9:30pm or as conditions change.  

What locals should do right now

• Check VicEmergency frequently for the latest warning level, map changes, and updates.  
• Keep a radio on (ABC Local Radio + local commercial/community stations) for emergency broadcasts.  
• With gusty winds, be alert for trees down, debris and powerlines — and avoid travel if it’s not essential.  
• Call 000 if you are in immediate danger.