By ANEEKA SIMONIS
AN alleged child arsonist has been charged over a large scrub fire which closed the Monash Freeway near Hallam during the chaotic peak traffic period.
A large fire on Gunns Road Reserve in Hallam near the major arterial sent heavy traffic into mayhem after 3pm on Monday 4 January, closing off entire parts of the freeway as emergency fire crews worked to contain the blaze.
Police charged a 12-year-old Hallam boy with recklessly causing a bushfire later that evening.
The boy has been bailed to appear at a children’s court in February.
A day earlier, crews including fire-fighting aircraft were called in to contact a grass fire which broke out in Devon Meadows.
Water bombing helicopters fought the Stanley Road blaze reported before 2pm on Sunday 3 January.
CFA also issued fire safety warnings for the Narre Warren North and Harkaway area after a blaze broke out before 2pm on New Year’s Eve along Robinson Road.
Police are urging anyone with information about suspiciously lit fires to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
