Fire risk inspections begin

GOLDEN Plains Shire residents are preparing for this fire season with help from council’s Fire Hazard Inspections.

Beginning last Monday, the program is identifying properties which could hold fire risks for their owners, neighbours and places nearby, and issuing Fire Prevention Notices.

If issued with a notice, landowners will need to rid of their fire risk by Sunday, 1 December, before council makes another inspection to confirm the improvements have been made.

Grass in Golden Plains Shire needs to be kept under 100 millimetres during the fire danger period.

Mayor, Cr Owen Sharkey said it’s critical all residents prepare, rather than being complacent, to avoid devastation.

“Preventing bushfires and protecting homes in our Shire is a serious task,” he said.

“The goal is to ensure that all residents do the right thing to reduce the grass fire risk on their own property and in their own community. So, while there are penalties for those who ignore their obligation, our preference is for everyone to play their part, so we don’t have to give out any fines.”

Cr Sharkey said council officers are working with the CFA and police protect communities across the fire season.

“Council thanks the many local community volunteers, especially the incredible men and women of the CFA, and we encourage all shire residents to support them, too by getting their home prepared, in the event there is a fire emergency.

“If you’re heading out of town this summer holidays, please make a plan to keep your property fire ready, and hopefully we’ll have a quiet bushfire season this year,” Cr Sharkey said.

Council’s fire prevention processes began last month with roadside and fire break slashing, and controlled burns of some reserves.

For more information, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/residents/my-community/fire-prevention.