A firefighter has died while trying to contain a fire in Omeo in Victoria's north-east on Saturday.

Wonthaggi man Bill Slade, 60, was killed by a falling tree at the fire's edge in Omeo as part of a group of Forest Fire Management Victoria firefighters.

Mr Slade had worked with Parks Victoria for more than 40 years, receiving a commendation in November last year.

He is survived by his wife, Carol, and his two children Steph and Ethan.