BROADFORD, VIC. — Mitchell Shire Council is encouraging residents to start cleaning up their properties now, before the fire danger period begins.
Mitchell Shire has finished its roadside spraying program and will start roadside slashing once spring growth slows and grass begins to dry off, so the work is most effective during the higher-risk months. Council states that it is also working with local CFA brigades to support community education and preparedness events across the shire.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall said keeping the community safe over summer was a partnership.
“Council is doing its part on roadsides, and we’re working alongside our local CFA brigades. But the work people do on their own properties makes a real difference too,” Cr Dougall said.
“Please don’t wait until the weather heats up. A few hours in the garden now could protect your home, your family and your neighbours later.”
What can I do to prepare?
Before the weather heats up:
- cut grass and clear away dead leaves, twigs and garden waste around your home
- clean out gutters and trim branches overhanging the house
- move woodpiles and other flammable materials away from your house
- make or update your fire plan and talk it through with your family
- download the VicEmergency app for warnings and alerts
Can I burn off?
Mitchell Shire is currently outside the Fire Danger Period, so you can burn off if you follow Council’s rules.
On residential and semi-rural properties, you can burn off without a Council permit between 10am and 3pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays, as long as the burn-off is no larger than 2 cubic metres and you’re burning permitted materials only. Different rules apply on farming land.
Every burn-off must be registered with the CFA through Fire Permits Victoria before you light it.
Find the full rules, including when you need a permit, on Council’s burning off page.
Where can I get advice?
Local CFA brigades are running Get Fire Ready events across the Shire, where you can talk to local volunteers about preparing your property and your fire plan:
Saturday, October 10: Clonbinane (with CFA Open Day)
Sunday, October 11: Seymour
Saturday, October 24: Wandong (with CFA Open Day)
Sunday, October 25: Nulla Vale
Saturday, October 31: The first 72 on you, Highlands Market
Saturday, November 28: Beveridge
Find event details at CFA: What’s on
“These events are a great chance to talk with your local brigade and leave with a plan. I encourage everyone to go along to one near them,” Cr Dougall said.
For more information, visit Council’s preparing your property for fire page.
In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
