Burns planned across the region

Locals and visitors to the Surf Coast may see smoke over coming days due to two planned burns.

Authorities are hoping to hold the burns along Henderson Track and Sharps Road, near Lorne, covering nearly 1,600 hectares.

More than 100 firefighters will be involved in the operations, with a Firebird helicopter to ignite bushland from the air using an aerial drip torch.

The sites will be closed to the public until the area is considered safe.

Some road closures may also be in place.

Stephanie Ryan from Forest Fire Management Victoria said there could also be lingering smoke for several days.

"We're planning at this stage for three days to four days," she said.

"There is likely to be a signficant column of smoke in and around Lorne."

A 65 hectare burn is also planned for a reserve west of Lethbridge.

The burn will be lit in the Boonderoo Nature Conservation Reserve, aimed at controlling weeds and encouraging the regeneration of native grassland.

Locals around Lethbridge, Shelford and Maude may see and smell smoke from the fire.

Picture: A Firebird helicopter will be used in the planned burns near Lorne [supplied]