Greater Shepparton City Council has confirmed several service changes will be in place on Friday, January 9, as temperatures are forecast to exceed 40°C, accompanied by strong and gusty winds.
Council acting chief executive Chris Teitzel said community safety was the highest priority.
“We urge everyone to take the necessary precautions, stay informed through official channels, and look out for vulnerable members of our community,” he said.
Waste collection services will continue; however, kerbside bins will be collected earlier than usual.
Residents are encouraged to put bins out tonight to avoid missed collections.
As part of the changes, KidsTown will be closed, with barriers and signage installed to notify visitors.
Frank Pullar Children’s Centre in Mooroopna will also be closed, with affected families already notified.
The Ardmona Resource Recovery Centre will remain closed.
To help residents cope with the extreme heat, council has identified several cool relief locations.
Mooroopna, Merrigum and Tatura outdoor pools will extend their hours and operate from 11am to 7pm, while Aquamoves in Shepparton will operate as normal.
Libraries in Shepparton, Mooroopna and Tatura will remain open, offering air-conditioned spaces for people needing respite from the heat.
Shopping centres, including Shepparton Marketplace and Riverside Plaza, are also available as alternative cooling locations.
Public transport will be significantly impacted, with all V/Line train and coach services on the Shepparton line cancelled on Friday due to catastrophic fire danger ratings.
Freight services on the V/Line network will be temporarily suspended.
CFA has warned Friday’s conditions could be the most dangerous experienced this summer.
Meanwhile, RSPCA Victoria has issued a strong warning to pet owners after receiving 20 reports of alleged animal neglect in extreme heat this week.
Owners are reminded to provide shade, water and ventilation, and never leave animals in cars.
WorkSafe Victoria has also urged employers to adjust work arrangements, limit outdoor work and ensure workers take regular breaks to prevent heat-related illness.
Residents are encouraged to stay indoors where possible, limit travel and monitor updates via the VicEmergency app, V/Line website and council.
