Cade Lucas
Police are investigating if two large grass fires at a wetlands reserve in Altona this week are linked.
Police are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed or has been told about any concerning behaviour in relation to fires.
The most recent fire in the Laverton Grasslands occurred near Bell Avenue in Altona early on Wednesday, January 29.
FRV and CFA crews arrived at the scene at about 1.42am after callers to triple-0 reported seeing two fires spreading across the wetlands reserve.
Upon arrival, firefighters immediately requested additional support as a fire grew to three hectares in size.
An advice message was issued for residents in Altona and Altona Meadows, but the fire was not considered a risk to people or property and was brought under control by 4.36am.
Investigators are treating the blaze as suspicious and are working to establish the exact circumstances as well as any possible link to a fire in the same reserve three days earlier.
On the afternoon of Sunday, January 26, fire crews responded to a blaze near Purnell Street, Altona after callers to triple-0 reported it was spreading rapidly.
Firefighters arrived at the scene at about 3.49pm by which time the fire had already spread over a two kilometre radius and was threatening houses located 30 to 50 metres away.
The fires also got close to Westona train station on the Werribee train line, forcing a temporary suspension of services.
After four firefighting planes were deployed to assist ground crews tackling blaze, the fire was brought under control by about 6.15pm.
Anyone found guilty of recklessly or intentionally causing a bushfire can face up to 15 years in prison.
Lighting a fire on a total fire ban day can result in up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $46,000.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au