Harcourt fire and Emergency Relief Centre in Kyneton
Last updated on 09 January 2026
To support our neighbours at Mount Alexander Shire Council and those impacted by the Harcourt fire north of our border, the decision has been made for Macedon Ranges Shire Council to host an Emergency Relief Centre (ERC) at the Kyneton Toyota Sports & Aquatic Centre (KTSAC), to welcome anyone who needs to evacuate the fire and does not have a safe place to go.
This ERC is now open and you may notice increased activity in the immediate area, as we welcome our neighbours by providing a safe space for both human and animal relief (including power, showers and other amenities).
To support the focus on the ERC and any evacuees, for the time being, KTSAC's business-as-usual services will not operate (i.e. no swimming pool or gym). We thank our residents and members for their understanding during this time, and we'll endeavour to communicate any functional updates here and on our social media pages as things progress.
For any urgent queries, we encourage you to call (03) 5422 0333 - if outside of our normal business hours, our after-hours service will triage these calls accordingly.
NB: As at 7:15pm on 9/1/26, an additional ERC had also been set up by City of Greater Bendigo at the Bendigo Showgrounds (Holmes Rd, Bendigo).
Stay informed
Reminder: Council is not the source of the latest fire advice and warnings. We will share information on the Macedon Ranges Shire Council Facebook page where we can relevant to our shire, but it is important that you follow official VicEmergency warnings and advice on the VicEmergency website or by using the app, call the hotline (1800 226 226) and tune into your local ABC emergency broadcaster.
For the latest road closure information, visit VicTraffic's website.
Kyneton Emergency Relief Centre FAQs
Who can attend the ERC in Kyneton?
Anyone evacuating from the nearby Harcourt fire, who does not have a safe place to go and can find safe passage, is welcome at the Emergency Relief Centre in Kyneton.
You do not need to book in advance - just turn up and there will be staff available to help guide you.
What facilities/supports are available?
As a designated Emergency Relief Centre strategically identified in advance, the Kyneton Toyota Sports and Aquatic Centre has all basic necessities such as power and running water (i.e. for drinking, showering), as well as ample space for parking. We will also have somewhere for -people to sleep and are working on temporary bedding arrangements.
Representatives from support agencies and other external organisations may also be available at times to provide other supports.
Can I bring my animals?
In short, yes. There is ample space available in the centre - and immediate vicinity of the centre - to host domestic animals of all shapes and sizes.
Please take direction from staff when you arrive as to the most appropriate arrangements for your animal/s, and keep in mind that there may be other animals also in attendance.
How can I register my location/check in on loved ones?
The Australian Red Cross' 'Register. Find. Reunite' online service may be able to assist you in registering yourself and your location if you have evacuated, or to find someone who has evacuated.