Type Status Location Last Updated
Community Update - Security - Remain Vigilant Unknown Areas surrounding Porepunkah including Wangaratta and Mount Beauty Yesterday at 4:58 PM
This Community Information message is being issued for the incident at Porepunkah.
  • This Community Information message replaces the Community Information issued at 8:48pm Monday, 1 September. 
  • Victoria Police advise that the search for armed offender Desmond Freeman (Filby) continues in the broader Porepunkah area.
  • It is recommended that people travelling to Bright, Falls Creek or Mount Hotham avoid travelling through Porepunkah and instead, travel via Happy Valley Road at C534 and the Kiewa Valley Highway.
If you see Desmond, call 000 immediately and do not approach him.
What you should do:
Impacts in your area:
This message was issued by Victoria Police.

The next update is expected by 04/09/2025 06:00 pm or as the situation changes. 

Use multiple sources to stay informed:

Accessibility
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
  • To access this information in other languages, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
  • If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment, contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.