Fire danger period starts

The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Victoria released on August 26 identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2021/22 fire season.

Much of Victoria has experienced average to above average rainfall during winter and this is likely to result in continuous grass and crop fuels through most areas north and west of the Great Dividing Range.

Above normal pasture growth in the Northern Country fire district may see an increase in fire potential in late spring, prior to harvest.

However, District 22 Assistant Chief Fire Officer Rohan Taylor reminded Victorians that even an average fire season in this state can still be a bad one.

“Conditions through the last fire season were similar to what we’re expecting this year, and during those months we saw significant grass fires in the north and west of the state,” he said.

“The region has had plenty of spring rainfall and it may seem damp in certain areas, but we have seen several burn offs getting out of control with ease.

“The area is also experiencing rapid drying in grasslands across all local government areas due to a combination of the normal lifespan of grasses and warmer temperatures.

“Now as the grass and bush rapidly dry out in the Murray Goulburn Region, the warmer weather, increased crop yields and potential fuel will mean the fire potential is heightened.

“Any additional rainfall we do experience in summer will produce more growth, which could very easily result in an even higher fuel load throughout the summer season if not properly managed.

“Reducing fuel loads in these areas will ensure if a fire does break out, it has less chance of taking hold or spreading.

“While CFA and our partner agencies Fire Rescue Victoria and Forest Fire Management Victoria are doing everything we can to prepare for the bushfire season, we look to the community to use common sense and take responsibility for preventing fires.”

If people are using fire to clean up around their properties, they should register these at the Fire Permits Website www.firepermits.vic. gov.au, or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.

Victorians can find out “Can I or Can’t I?” information at cfa.vic.gov.au/warningsrestrictions/can or by calling VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226. All burn-offs should be registered at firepermits.vic.gov.au or with the VicFire Burn-off notification line on 1800 668 511.

The Fire Danger Period for Moira Shire Council started on Monday, November 29.