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Page last updated at 10:15 GMT, Thursday, 22 January 2009

Fire threatens homes in Australia

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A bush fire has raged through a neighbourhood in Melbourne, Australia - coming within metres of properties.

Residents of the south Melbourne suburb of Seaford awoke to find flames spreading within inches of their back doors.

More than 90 firefighters worked to get the fire under control, with many residents protecting their homes with water hoses, in the hope of stopping the fire before it was able to do any serious damage.

The fire was brought under control within three hours, thanks to the quick thinking of residents and fire fighters, local media reports.

Local fire departments are on high alert after strong winds and soaring temperatures were predicted for the rest of the week, fearing further outbreaks in the area.

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