Bushfire preparation: don’t wait for summer, residents told

SURF Coast residents in the region’s highest bushfire-risk communities are being urged to tackle overgrown vegetation this winter, with hundreds of properties targeted as part of a major fuel reduction program.

The Surf Coast Shire has launched its annual winter fuel reduction program, with a focus this year on Aireys Inlet and Anglesea.

Letters have been sent to about 960 property owners encouraging them to clear vegetation within 2m of homes, sheds and other buildings before the next fire season.

To help residents prepare, the shire is offering free kerbside collection of cut vegetation, including branches and weeds, until 31 July.

Cr Mike Bodsworth said winter was the ideal time to reduce bushfire risk around homes.

“If you’ve received a letter, please consider rugging up and getting outside with the pruners to reduce your bushfire risk and to make the most of the free kerbside collection service,” he said.

“This program rotates between high-risk communities each year. If you haven’t received a letter this year but your property is in an area of bushfire risk, whether that be forested areas or a coastal community, we still encourage you to reduce vegetation this winter.

“Our community fire safety officers are available to provide advice and support to everyone on bushfire prevention and how to be best prepared.”

Council officers will also remove roadside vegetation as part of the program to reduce fuel loads on public land.

Cr Bodsworth said community action remained critical in a region regularly identified as one of Australia’s most bushfire-prone areas.

“We live in one of the highest risk bushfire areas in Australia, and the community plays a vital role reducing this risk and supporting the work of government agencies,” he said.

“It helps us ensure communities are prepared ahead of emergencies.

“Before reducing vegetation, people should take the time to review the CFA’s Landscaping for Bushfire Guide and check they’re doing the right things including plant selection, tree maintenance and how far vegetation is from buildings.”

Residents outside the targeted areas can dispose of vegetation through their FOGO bins or transfer stations, with ratepayers to receive a free green waste voucher next month.

The shire will inspect properties after 31 July and may issue fire prevention notices where vegetation management requirements have not been met.