By Esther Lauaki
Sunbury and Macedon Ranges landowners are urged to take extra care with any burn-offs as the weather warms up.
Macedon Ranges council, in consultation with local CFA brigades, has lifted burning-off restrictions until October 14 for land less than 4000 square metres.
With the fire season just around the corner, landowners are encouraged to reduce the amount of fine fuels that are present on and around their property.
The safety reminder comes as CFA crews from Macedon, Riddells Creek and Gisborne have attended a number of grass and scrub fires at Mount Macedon in recent weeks – one with a large old gum tree well alight.
A spokesman from the Mt Macedon brigade said the tree fire was likely caused by embers from a nearby burn pile, carried by light winds overnight.
CFA north west region acting chief of operations Gavin Thompson emphasised that it was important for residents to remain vigilant.
“Residents that wish to conduct burn-offs on their private properties need to follow some basic rules, register your burn-offs first and foremost, check weather conditions as well as monitor the wind, and follow local council laws and regulations,” Mr Thompson said.
“Residents must ensure that when burning off they do not create a nuisance for their neighbours and should continue to monitor any burn-off for at least seven days to ensure it is fully extinguished.”
Register burn-offs by calling 1800 668 511.
