Northcote Emergency Services Handle Four Major Incidents This Week

Northcote emergency services faced a busy week responding to four significant incidents between July 5 and July 10, including a house fire on Westgarth Street and a multi-vehicle collision near Merri Creek.

The increased number and severity of emergencies coincide with Northcote's recent dry conditions and a city-wide campaign to improve emergency readiness following last year’s floods in adjacent suburbs. Local authorities emphasize the importance of rapid response and community preparedness as summer progresses.

Incident responses across the suburb

On July 7, firefighters from the Northcote Fire Brigade contained a structural fire at a two-storey residence on Westgarth Street, successfully limiting damage to the property and preventing spread to surrounding homes. Meanwhile, paramedics from the Northcote Ambulance Station treated and transported three individuals injured in a three-car crash on St Georges Road near Merri Creek early July 8.

The Northcote SES Unit carried out flood mitigation and road clearance work on Darebin Road following localized heavy rainfall on July 9, which caused temporary disruptions in the Merri-bek neighbourhood. Additionally, the Metropolitan Fire Brigade conducted a controlled burn exercise at the nearby Johnson Reserve as part of its summer bushfire preparedness program, further boosting local emergency capabilities.

Emergency service capacity and community impact

According to the Northcote Emergency Management Office, calls for service have increased by 15% during the first half of July compared to last year. The installation of two new emergency response stations in the suburb-one on High Street and another near Westgarth-has improved average response times by an estimated 20%, now reaching incidents within six minutes on average.

Local council funding has allocated $3.2 million this fiscal year towards upgrading communication systems and adding three new rapid-response vehicles to the Northcote Fire Brigade. Residents are advised to review the Northcote Community Emergency Plan available on the council website, which details evacuation routes, emergency contact numbers, and advice on preparing homes against fire and flood risks.

Looking ahead, emergency services will conduct a joint simulation exercise in Northcote’s Edwards Park on July 15 to enhance coordination between fire, ambulance, and SES units. Citizens are encouraged to participate and learn practical safety measures. With several high-risk periods remaining this summer, staying informed and prepared will be critical for Northcote residents.