To reduce the risk of future grassfires and to protect the community and environment ahead of summer, Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) is conducting slashing across Central Victoria.
Areas to be slashed include Macedon, Avoca, Bendigo, Castlemaine, Cohuna, Maldon, Echuca, Heathcote, Inglewood, Maryborough, Dunolly, Bealiba, Tarnagulla, Rushworth and St Arnaud.
FFMVic senior fuel management officer Jonathan Andrea said it was a culmination of higher-than-average rainfall and flooding which had prompted crews to get cracking and manage increased grass growth.
“We carefully monitor weather conditions and will be initially targeting priority areas for slashing that will have the greatest impact on reducing future bushfire risk to communities and the environment,” Mr Andrea said.
“Even though our crews are assisting with flood recovery and response, it is important slashing still happens to protect the community and environment from bushfires this summer. Therefore, FFMVic have engaged additional contractors to assist with delivery of this fuel reduction work.”
He said reducing bushfire risk was a shared responsibility with private landowners, council and the Country Fire Authority also playing an important role.
“Communities and households need to know how to be prepared and take action to reduce their bushfire risk,” he said.
“Homeowners are encouraged to be prepared for grass and bushfires by cutting long grass regularly, removing leaves and twigs from the yard and clearing space around their house of all flammable materials.
“Due to the floods, there may be rapid regrowth this summer and certain areas may require follow-up treatment.”
