AN Upwey man has been charged with intentionally lighting several fires near the Dandenong Ranges last year.
The 46-year-old man, whose name has been suppressed, appeared briefly at Melbourne Magistrates Court last week, facing 17 charges of intentionally causing a fire. He did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody to reappear before the court for a committal mention in March.
The fires broke out in Upwey, Belgrave, Tecoma, Ferntree Gully and Upper Ferntree Gully between July and December last year.
Property belonging to the Department of Sustainability and Environment, Yarra Ranges Council and Upwey High School were all targeted. A suppression order has been granted to protect his safety should he be granted bail.
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