Since the start of summer, CFA volunteers have responded to more than 30 haystack-related incidents statewide, with several significant fires reported in northern Victoria over recent days.
One of the largest incidents occurred on Friday, March 20, at McMillans in the state’s north-west, where more than 1500 hay bales were destroyed in a hayshed fire.
CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer for District 20 Mick Sporton said moisture from recent rain had increased the risk of hay heating internally, leading to fires.
“Things are cooling down as we head into autumn, but with that comes rain and moisture, which can increase the risk of haystacks catching fire,” Mr Sporton said.
Mr Sporton urged farmers to regularly check the internal temperature of hay bales to ensure they don’t overheat.
“Farmers across the state are already dealing with many challenges, and it’s devastating when we see them lose valuable hay,” he said.
Further incidents were reported this week in the north-east.
On Monday, March 23, CFA crews attended a haystack fire in Wilby where more than 3000 bales caught alight.
While volunteers were able to save the majority of the stack, about 200 bales were lost.
Earlier that day, crews also responded to a haystack fire at Ballendella, where approximately 800 bales caught alight.
CFA said spontaneous combustion could occur when moisture inside hay bales creates the ideal conditions for microorganisms to grow, generating heat.
If the rising temperature is not detected early, the hay can ignite.
Mr Sporton said farmers could monitor temperatures using a hay probe or even a crowbar.
“If there are signs the hay is heating up, pull the stack apart to improve airflow and allow the bales to cool,” he said.
Warning signs include steam rising from stacks, condensation or corrosion under shed roofs, mould growth, slumping sections of hay, or unusual odours such as burning, musty or caramel-like smells.
The CFA also recommends limiting the size of haystacks and storing hay in multiple locations, well away from vehicles and machinery, to reduce potential losses.
More information on haystack fire prevention is available on the CFA website.
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