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Major Fire Updates

Advice: Murray River Road, Talmalmo (Greater Hume Shire LGA) – Monitor Conditions: Talmalmo, Jingellic, Ournie and along the border to Khancoban 16/01/2026 08:12

Posted: 16/01/2026 08:12

A large bush fire is burning in Victoria, in the Mt Lawson National Park area, south of the Murray River and approximately 50km east of Albury.

The fire remains south of the Murray River and is not currently threatening property in NSW. If the situation changes and NSW properties are threatened, appropriate warning levels and community calls to action will be issued.

Current Situation

  • The fire is burning south of the Murray River in Victoria.
  • As wind changes move across the fireground smoke will continue to be visible across broad areas.
  • Those in Ournie, Welaregang, Tooma, Greg Greg, Bringenbrong and Khancoban should monitor conditions.
  • High fire danger is expected today, Friday 16th of January.
  • Jingellic South Road (Jingellic Bridge) is open for emergency services and local residents only however access is still limited in parts. Check the Vic Emergency page for details.
  • Victorian fire agencies are conducting backburning operations across this fireground. Communities in south east NSW will notice smoke as a result of this work.

What you need to do

  • Stay alert and monitor your surroundings.
  • Watch out for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.
  • This means looking out for burning embers, changes in wind direction and smoke. Watch for signs of fire in your area.
  • Know what you will do if the fire impacts on where you are. Identify a safer location in case the situation changes. This may include a well cleared area or a solid structure such as a home.
  • If you are not prepared to the highest level, leaving early is the safest option.

If you are threatened by fire

  • If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure such as a house to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.
  • Bring pets indoors and restrain them, close all doors and windows and turn off air conditioners, keep water running if possible.
  • Shelter in a room on the other side of the building from the approaching fire, and one that has water and a clear exit out of the house.
  • Monitor both inside and outside for small fires and burning embers and turn sprinklers on if you have them.
  • Be careful outdoors after the fire has passed as trees can be unstable and fall.
  • If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000).

Emergency Relief Centre

An Emergency Relief Centre is open at Wodonga Exhibition Hall, Wodonga Racecourse, Hamilton Smith Drive, Wodonga for residents evacuating from the Victorian fires, including Tholongong and surrounding areas.

If relocating to Tumbarumba, please note:

  • No evacuation centre is available; you must remain self-sufficient.
  • Limited accommodation in town — stay with family or friends if possible.
  • If you need accommodation or welfare support, go to the Wodonga Emergency Relief Centre.
  • Register on Register, Find, Reunite to let others know you’re safe.

Other Information

  • Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking Hazards Near Me, the RFS website, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
  • For more information on the Victorian Fires, visit VicEmergency
  • If you have a respiratory condition and may be affected by smoke, activate your health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary. Take precautions, such as staying indoors and closing windows. Check NSW Health
  • For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW.
  • Monitor weather conditions and weather warnings at Bureau of Meteorology.
  • For information on temporary school closures in your area, check School Operational Status.