Thousands Felt the Earthquake

A 5.9 magnitude earthquake at a 10 kilometre depth has been recorded on Wednesday morning, with the epicentre recorded between Mansfield and Rawson, Victoria.

The earthquake occurred around 9:15 a.m., with 35,000 felt reports and numerous accounts of building damage across multiple areas in metropolitan Melbourne, and other parts of the State.

The “Times” received calls  a number of calls from residents of the Donald, Birchip and Wycheproof communities, indicating that they held felt the earth move.

Since the initial earthquake, six magnitude 3.5, 4.1, 2.5, 3.1, 2.4 and 2.9 aftershocks have since occurred near the epicentre area of Mansfield.

The earthquake caused temporary power loss in the morning, with more than 35,000 people without power across metropolitan parts of Melbourne and some regional parts including the Mansfield area and surrounds. 

Minor building damage has been recorded in parts of Melbourne including Kensington, Ascot Vale, Prahran, Parkdale, Elsternwick, West Melbourne and Balwyn, and with further aftershocks still possible, the Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is urging Victorians to stay safe and use common sense if out and about. 

Calls for Help
So far, VICSES volunteers have responded to over 108 calls for help in regards to earthquake assistance, primarily for building damage regarding facades, chimneys and older building structures.

Since the initial reports, the Department of Transport and Water Authorities have been checking rail and road infrastructure, along with dams and water storages, including the Hume Dam with no issues found. 

VICSES Chief Officer Operations, Tim Wiebusch, said he does not expect the commitment to be significant for the recovery phase, but emergency services remain ready to assist with a wide range of earthquake response operations, from roofing to chainsaw work. 

Remain Calm
“It’s important to remain calm, but vigilant,” said VICSES Chief Officer Operations, Tim Wiebusch. 

“Aftershocks can continue to occur for some time after the main earthquake, if you are located in Victoria, you need to know what to do. Expect aftershocks, and ensure to stay away from damaged buildings and other hazards,” 

Since the earthquake, VICSES crews have been out in their communities undertaking public reassurance activities with Incident Control Centres activated in North East Victoria, Metro Melbourne and Gippsland. 

Emergency Management Commissioner, Andrew Crisp, said the State Control Centre is supporting VICSES with the response.

“Thank you to all our VICSES volunteers and to everyone who joined the response effort that morning,” said Commissioner Crisp. 

“Geoscience Australia have notified us that aftershocks can continue for some time after the initial earthquake, so I remind Victorians to stay safe, and to continue to contact the VICSES if they require assistance.”

“For the most up to date information please monitor the Vic Emergency channels and download the Vic Emergency app.” 

Victorians are reminded to never rely on one channel for emergency information. Connect to official sources of emergency information, including:

• VicEmergency app.
• www.emergency.vic.gov.au
• Tune in to local emergency broadcasters such as ABC local radio, commercial and select community radio stations, or SkyNews TV.
• Phone the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
• Follow VicEmergency on Facebook and Twitter.