The fire started about 9.30pm last Wednesday and burnt through grass and vegetation on Federation Hill in Wodonga.

The blaze started at the back of Avondale Drive, about 100 metres from the nearest home.

It occurred the night before dangerous fire conditions, but police don’t think the incident is linked to a string of fires which occurred the following morning.

Detective Sergeant Graeme Simpfendorfer said a boy and two girls, aged between 14 and 16 and with backpacks, were seen walking down the hill.

“If that is you, or you know who that is, we will encourage you to contact us so we can investigate this fully,” he said.

“This particular fire we’re treating in isolation.

“It was on the Wednesday evening before the conditions worsened the following day.

“But being on the urban fringe it’s of great concern to us.

“This fire could have taken off if the conditions had been worse.”

Police retrieved several items from the scene which will be forensically tested.

Detective Sergeant Simpfendorfer said all fires had the potential to be devastating.

“Everyone in the North East should know that if it’s fire season or not, lighting a fire can have dire consequences, if not fatal (consequences),” he said. 

“We do have a witness that saw those people in the area. 

“We want this male and two females to come forward. 

Anyone with information can call (02) 6049 2600 or 1800 333 000.