A FIRE near Heathcote has been controlled after it burnt more than 170 hectares destroying a hayshed and machinery shed.

A watch and act warning for Graytown and Moormbool West residents has been downgraded to an advice message, saying they are not under threat but should stay informed.

Firefighters will continue to work patrolling the fire and responding to hotspots to make the area safe.

Other news

Smoke will be visible from nearby roads and communities.

Residents have been urged to monitor warnings so they can act quickly if the situation changes. They should review their fire survival plan, or if they do not have plan, decide what they should do if the situation changes.

At least 22 Country Fire Authority Vehicles and five water aircraft, along with Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning personnel responded to the fire.

VicEmergency has warned smoke can affect people's lungs, with those with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children, pregnant women and older people more sensitive to its effects.

Those with existing heart or lung conditions should follow the treatment plan advised by their doctor.

If you need medical advice for burns or smoke exposure contact your doctor or Nurse on Call on 1300 606 024.

Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness or difficulty breathing should call Triple Zero (000).

Stay up to date at: emergency.vic.gov.au/

2.15pm

A HAYSHED and machinery shed have been lost but houses saved near Heathcote, after a fire ripped through 170 hectares.

Twenty-two Country Fire Authority vehicles are on the scene, along with water aircraft and Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning personnel.

CFA crews are protecting assets on the Mount Camel-Graytown Road.

A watch and act warning remains in place for residents of Graytown and Moormbool West, for a grassfire spreading north.

Stay up to date at: emergency.vic.gov.au/

1.30pm

A FIRE near Heathcote has burnt about 70 hectares of land, as crews continue to fight the blaze.

Country Fire Authority crews have called for 20 truck, with about 16 on scene.

VicEmergency has issued a watch and act warning for Graytown and Moormbool West.

Five water aircraft are assisting fighting the fire.

Forest Fire Management Victoria personnel are also on scene.

Asset protection is continuing near Hoods Lane and the Mount Camel-Graytown Road.

12.45pm

Authorities have issued a Watch and Act warning for the fire burning at Graytown and Moormbool West.

The fire is burning in a northerly direction, away from the Heathcote-Nagambie Road and has crossed the Mt Camel-Graytown Road.

Staying close to a building you can shelter in is the safest option as conditions can change suddenly, officials said.

Crews from across the region are heading to the area to help fight the flames and protect buildings in the area.

Aircraft is also being used.

Earlier

Crews, including aircraft, are responding to a fire east of Heathcote.

The paddock fire is burning near the Heathcote-Nagambie Road at Graytown.

It was first reported just before midday on Tuesday.

The Country Fire Authority said some crews were being asked to perform "asset protection" in the area around Hoods Lane and the Mt Camel-Graytown Rd.

More to come.

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