Central Goldfields Shire residents are being urged to prepare for a potentially dangerous fire season by reducing fuel loads on their property now.
To assist the community, Council is offering free green waste drop off at the Carisbrook, Talbot and Dunolly transfer stations from Saturday 4 to Tuesday 14 November 2023.
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 Mayor Cr Grace La Vella said protecting the community is the priority, and the time to start planning is now.
"We all have a responsibility to help reduce the risk of fire to our own property and the entire community. Let's all play our part in keeping Central Goldfields Shire safe this fire season.
"It's a time to check you have the right equipment, the right protection or evacuation plan and that you think about people living nearby who could be in more danger, like those who are elderly or living alone.
"If things do get serious later in the season, who else do you need to look out for?
CFA Goldfields Group Officer Peter Higgins said given fire restrictions are starting to come into force in neighbouring shires – we should expect the CFA to make announcements for the Central Goldfields in the coming weeks.
"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 declared and in force, fire restrictions prevent open air burning without a permit, and adherence to special requirements.
"Based on guidance from the weather bureau, we are expecting warmer than usual conditions in the Shire."
Central Goldfields Shire Operations Manager Alan Jones said his team would commence their slashing program in mid-November.
"Our program of works includes the slashing of all Council roadsides throughout the Shire and all open grassed areas - especially those that will brown off when the heat starts."
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 engage a contractor to complete the works and invoice the landowner for the costs.
Residents who know of a property of concern can contact Council's Compliance team on 5461 0610.
