Two-day storm blackout strike

MORE than 3000 residents were left without power for almost two days after severe weather lashed the hills.
And one of the hills’ main roads remained closed on Monday afternoon after a falling tree brought down high-voltage powerlines.
SP AusNet said on Monday afternoon that customers in Belgrave, Upwey and Sassafras were still without power because of the extreme weather which also hammered a large part of south-east Australia.
“The winds have resulted in crews attending to repair fallen power-lines, damage to conductors and vegetation falling across powerpoles,” a spokesman said.
“We anticipate that the majority of power outages in the region will be restored by 4pm Monday, with some major jobs requiring an intermittent power outage to make areas safe.” Belgrave Gembrook Road was closed between Menzies Creek and Belgrave on Sunday because of the fallen powerline.
Belgrave police Acting Sergeant Kevin Hogg said the delays caused by the road closure were unfortunate but also unavoidable. “The powerlines down over the road are high voltage so VicRoads has had to wait for a special team to come and remove them,” he said.
Cars were detoured over un-made roads due to the closure.
“People are being diverted over roads which aren’t designed for heavier traffic,” Sgt Hogg said.
“It’s unfortunate but it’s the only option available aside from Wellington Road.”
Local authorities were unsure when the road would re-open but VicRoads inspectors kept a close eye on the detours.
The fallen tree on Belgrave Gembrook Road was one of many incidents attended by emergency services over the weekend.
Jacob Krul of Lilydale SES said his crew had attended about 60 jobs including more than 20 in the Mount Evelyn area.
While no one was injured, Mr Krul said a number of trees crashed onto houses, causing major damage.
Although some residents have been without power for almost two days, SP AusNet stressed people’s safety was its top priority.
“In some cases, it may take up to Tuesday morning to restore some individual house-level faults,” a spokesman said.
“We’re always concerned when power is interrupted and would like to thank everyone for their patience while our crews carry out repairs.”
Report power-related hazards to SP AusNet’s faults hotline on 13 17 99.