An emergency warning was put out to the residents of Mitchell Road in Benger at about 3pm yesterday - stay and defend your homes or leave for a safer place.

Pictures of Benger fire by Clare Negus

The bushfire at the Benger Swamp Nature Reserve, which had already burnt through 300 hectares, had just entered private property and was threatening lives and homes.

More than six hours later the bushfire, attended by about 60 bushfire brigade fire crews, four fixed-wing water bombers and a type one helicopter, the bushfire had been contained.

There was no loss of property.

At 9pm last night the DEC had downgraded the fire and wanted people to stay alert.

The next update on the status of the fire is expected at 11am this morning.

The cause of the fire is unknown but will be investigated.

People are asked to report any suspicious people or vehicles to Police Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.