UPDATE: Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) is urgently slashing grass across the Murray Goldfields District to mitigate the risk of devastating grassfires as summer approaches. Crews are set to cut grass on 2,000 hectares at 700 locations in the coming weeks, with immediate efforts focusing on both Kyneton and Macedon.
Acting manager Andrew Koren confirmed that the proactive measures are part of a broader strategy to manage fire risks. “One of the ways we reduce bushfire risk in the lead-up to summer is by managing long dry grass through slashing,” Koren stated. This method complements other critical activities like planned burning, mulching, and spraying.
Grass slashing is carefully timed to match the anticipated growth of grass; if performed too early, it could promote unwanted regrowth that necessitates additional treatments. Koren emphasized, “In the Murray Goldfields District, we start this work in the north and move south to align with changing grass conditions.”
This initiative is part of year-round fire preparedness efforts aimed at safeguarding communities from bushfire threats. Koren urges residents to take precautionary measures at home: “We encourage residents to cut long grass, remove leaves and twigs from their yards, and clear flammable materials from around their houses.”
Reducing combustible fuels such as grass, leaves, bark, and fallen branches can significantly lower fire intensity and slow down spread, allowing firefighters to manage bushfires more effectively. Communities are called to action: if any area of public land remains unaddressed by 19 December, residents should contact the DEECA Customer Service Centre at 136 186 for assistance.
For more information on preparing properties for bushfire season, visit: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/before-and-during-a-fire/fire-ready-kit.
As the summer heat looms, these measures are critical for ensuring community safety and preventing potential disasters. Stay informed and take action—your safety depends on it!
