In preparation for what is predicted to be an early start to the fire season, Murrindindi Shire Council begin its Fire Prevention Slashing Program tomorrow, Monday, October 1.
Deputy Mayor Sandice McAulay said in a media release that we [council] are starting slashing earlier this year.
“Following feedback from the community, tractors and slashers will start work in the Kinglake Ranges area much earlier than normal, with the Program scheduled to be completed in that area in early December. In previous years slashing in the Kinglake Ranges has not usually occurred until mid-January.
“Our Council officers have been working closely with neighbouring councils and VicRoads to ensure a consistent approach to fire prevention in the Kinglake Ranges area, McAuley said.
“This year we are trialing a new approach where we begin slashing before the grass starts to cure or dry out,” McAulay said.
Fire preparedness is a high priority for Council. The Fire Prevention Slashing Program is aimed at asset protection and maintaining vehicular access.
“As a result of the early start to the Program, some areas may require further slashing works later in the season if there is considerable regrowth. This will be completed as required.
“At this stage, the plan is for the Fire Prevention Slashing Program to kick off in the Alexandra and Eildon areas and then move on to the Taggerty, Yarck, Molesworth, Yea and Highlands areas from mid-October.
“Early November will see slashing begin in the Strath Creek, Flowerdale and Glenburn areas.
“The majority of Marysville’s fire prevention woks are completed by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.
“This season, our Community Safety officers will also be inspecting residential properties throughout the Shire and working with landowners to ensure they maintain their property’s fuel load in an effort to reduce fire risk.
“We all need to work together to manage grass and fire risks during the fire danger period,” McAulay said.
“Keep in mind, as with all works schedule, days and times of these works may vary according to weather conditions. We’ll keep you updated with the slashing schedule via www.murrindindi.vic.gov.au/slashingprogram though,” McAulay added.
For more information, contact Murrindindi Shire’s Community Safety Unit on (03) 5772 0333.
Please note: VicRoads is responsible for slashing and fire prevention activities on the following roads:
- Broadford- Flowerdale Road
- Goulburn Valley Highway
- Healesville-Kinglake Road
- Kinglake-Heidelberg Road
- Maroondah Highway
- Marysville-Buxton Road
- Melba Highway
- Taggerty-Thornton Road
- Whittlesea-Kinglake Road
- Whittlesea-Yea Road
