By Courtney Black
The Whittlesea Agricultural Society has advised that the Whittlesea Showgrounds are open for anyone who is evacuating bushfires with animals.
WAS said Showgrounds Road is the best point of entry to the showground which is approximately 8.9 hectares (22 acres) in size.
WAS said domestic pets should be crated or contained for safety if brought to the showgrounds, and advised pet owners to bring containers for water if possible.
WAS said toilets and showers will be open to the public evacuating the Longwood bushfires.
VicEmergency issued a watch and act warning for towns 60km north of Whittlesea, advising residents to prepare to leave.
The Whittlesea Agricultural Society can be contacted on 0417 518 128.
