Bush fires in many areas assumed even more serious proportions under the influence of yesterday’s hot north wind and many more houses were destroyed. Whole townships are still in serious danger.

It was reported from Healesville early this morning that heavy rain had set inj at midnight and relieved the position there.

...No lives are known to have been lost, but grave fears are felt for 100 men, women and children at the Ada Mill, 10 miles north-east of Powelltown. In a number of mills in Erica district another 100 men have not been heard from. They are in the direct path of the flames. All women and children have been evacuated from this area.

[SNP, 11/1/39]

Adelaide – Tuesday – Covering several hundred square miles in and near the Adelaide hills, half a dozen bush fires, some of the worst in the State’s history, today destroyed many homes, imperilled townships and residents, disorganised telegraph and telephone services, caused thousands of pounds’ damage to property and pastures, and killed hundreds of cattle and sheep.

[SNP, 11/1/39]