Indi MP Cathy McGowan said the system held up well for people with service, but others could not call out at all as the fire highlighted the valley’s ongoing blackspot issues.

One resident, who lived by herself, told a community meeting at Middle Indigo Primary School it was not good enough she only had one bar of reception.

About 130 people at the meeting were assured the fire had stopped spreading, but there was still work to be done by firefighters.

The group agreed roadblocks, in place to keep out anyone except residents and tradesmen, would remain in place until 6am Tuesday morning.

Residents were frustrated slip-on vehicles and other emergency services had not been allowed through traffic management points, but Senior Sergeant Chris Parr said police had to follow strict rules.

“There’s some equipment there you could probably use, but unless it falls into those categories, I won’t let my officers past that checkpoint,” he said.

“We’re really just trying to assist you to get back to how it was.”

Power outages around Elligates Road, Black Dog Creek Road and White Box Rise were not likely to be repaired for a few days.

Ms McGowan thanked the CFA volunteers and service providers for their hard work and pleaded with everyone to look after each other during the difficult time.

“Can we just pay particular attention to our emotional health over the next few days?” she said.

“The community needs to come together like we do before Christmas.”