UPDATE: As hay season kicks off in the west and northwest regions of Australia, farmers are on high alert to prevent devastating haystack fires. The Country Fire Authority (CFA) reports a staggering 73 haystack and hay shed fires recorded between June 30, 2024, and July 1, 2025, with over 53% occurring in the western and northwestern areas of the state.
Haystack fires often result from spontaneous combustion, particularly when hay is baled with excess moisture. This season’s conditions raise significant concerns as internal heat builds within tightly packed bales, risking ignition. Buloke West group officer and farmer David Manifold emphasizes the critical factors contributing to these fires. “Baling hay at high moisture levels or drying it too long increases yeast and mold growth,” he warns. “The yeast and mold can reach such levels that any moisture intrusion is as good as throwing a match on it.”
Farmers are urged to implement preventative measures immediately. Manifold employs advanced technologies, including machinery that shortens the baling window to under seven days, which is vital for minimizing yeast and mold levels. He also uses a temperature probe that monitors hay conditions, sending alerts if temperatures reach 40 and 50 degrees Celsius.
CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan highlights the economic implications of these fires. “The number of haystack fires in the past financial year showcases the serious impact on farmers and their livelihoods,” he stated. “These fires can affect not just individual farms but also neighboring properties and emergency services.”
Farmers are advised to store hay in separate stacks or enclosed sheds, away from farm equipment and buildings, to mitigate fire spread risks. The urgency of these recommendations cannot be overstated as the hay season progresses.
As farmers prepare for the season, vigilance is essential. The CFA encourages all farmers to prioritize safety and take immediate action to protect their livelihoods and their communities. For more details, visit: CFA Fire Safety Guidelines.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.
