Are you ready for the Fire Danger Period?

The Fire Danger Period for Strathbogie Shire begins on Monday 27 November 2023.

This means fire restrictions will be in force and people cannot light fires in the open air unless they comply with certain requirements or have a permit. Check the Country Fire Authority (CFA) website for more information.

Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Cr Laura Binks said our community was very switched on when it came to fire prevention and reduction and most people had already begun cutting, mowing and clearing.

‘Being ready for the worst is about good preparation and having a plan – so if you haven’t started, now is definitely the time to get your property ready and have an emergency plan for you, your family and animals,’ she said.

‘If you see a property in need of attention or you just can’t do it yourself, please contact the Council as soon as possible – nobody wants to be responsible for a devastating fire.

Council officers will be inspecting again from Monday and anybody who fails to meet basic fuel reduction standards for their property after the second inspection will receive a fire prevention notice requiring immediate attention to reduce fire risk at the property.

Failure to act after a fire prevention notice leads to an infringement notice and a fine of $1923.10. In addition, Council will engage contractors to do the work and landowners or occupiers will need to pay the cost.

Mayor Binks said it was also timely to mention the Local Emergency Action Plans (LEAP) being developed through extensive engagement and collaboration with our communities.

‘The community response has been fantastic so far. Violet Town was first cab off the rank and their plan is ready and can be viewed at https://www.strathbogie.vic.gov.au/services/emergency-preparedness/local-emergency-action-plans-leaps/ .

Euroa and Avenel are expected to release their plans in December 2023 and Strathbogie and Nagambie will follow in the first half of next year.

For more information about the LEAP plans or to get involved visit Council’s online engagement platform Share Strathbogie

Always check the CFA website www.cfa.vic.gov.au for the most up-to-date information regarding the fire season.

Anybody with questions about their property or what they need to do, should call Council on 1800 065 993 for assistance – it is never too late to take action to reduce our fire risk.