Central Goldfields Shire residents are being urged to prepare for the fire season by reducing fuel loads on their property now.
Goldfields Group Officer of Fire Brigades Peter Higgins, said given the Fire Danger Period is commencing on 11 November this year, now is the time to get to work.
"CFA declares the Fire Danger Period for each municipality at different times in the lead up to the fire season. Its timing depends on the amount of rain, grassland curing rate and other local conditions. Once in force, fire restrictions prevent open air burning without a permit and adherence to special requirements.
"Even at times of moderate fire danger, a catastrophic event can flare up when conditions suddenly change."
To assist the community, Council is offering free green waste drop off at the Carisbrook, Talbot and Dunolly transfer stations from Friday 1 to Monday 11 November 2024, which allows residents to take advantage of the Melbourne Cup long weekend.
Residents can prepare their surrounds by:
- Clearing undergrowth, bark and fallen branches
- Moving firewood and other combustibles away from their home
- Cleaning out gutters and drains
- Pruning low branches near buildings and fence lines
- keeping grass and weeds low
Central Goldfields Shire Council Interim CEO Sally Jones said protecting the community from fire is everyone's responsibility, and the time to start is now.
"Reducing the risk of fire on our own property also helps keep our neighbours and the whole community safer as the weather heats up and the district dries out.
"It's important we take a whole-of-community approach with Council, the CFA, state authorities and landowners all playing their part.
"Some people may need help tidying up and preparing for the summer ahead, before it gets too hot. It's best to get this work done while we're accepting free green waste at our transfer stations.
Central Goldfields Shire Operations Manager Alan Jones said his team commenced its work on fuel reduction weeks ago.
"Our program of works starts with tree trimming around power lines, weed spraying, then extensive slashing of all Council roadsides and open grassed areas throughout our Shire."
"This way we minimise the chance of significant re-growth before the peak fire danger period in the new year."
Council's Manager Statutory Services Peter Field said that under State Government legislation, Council must also conduct fire hazard inspections of private property.
"Between November and April each year, Council's Municipal Fire Prevention Officer (MFPO) inspects properties within our Shire to ensure all properties have been maintained to minimise fire risk.
"Within the Fire Danger Period, properties identified as being high fire risk will be issued with a Fire Prevention Notice to carry out works on their property by a specific date. If the landholder fails to comply, we will appoint a contractor to complete the works and invoice the landowner for the costs, and possibly issue fines.
Residents who know of a property of concern can contact Council's Compliance team on 5461 0610.
