Elsie Lange
A Macedon Ranges’ resident’s petition to ban fireworks on private properties in rural areas has garnered nearly 2000 signatures since last week.
Springfield Equestrian Park owner Emily Bannister started the petition because she said she sees the “extreme stress” suffered by horses when fireworks are used on private properties nearby.
“I would like to see fireworks banned from rural areas, or at the very least only allow the ‘silent’ fireworks, like they use in Europe around livestock,” she said.
“This would minimise the negative effects that fireworks have on horses and pets.”
Only licensed pyrotechnicians or people under their direct supervision have permission to use fireworks on private properties in Victoria, after giving at least seven days’ notice to WorkSafe.
Fellow campaigner, Romsey resident Michelle Downes, said it was too simple to get permission to use fireworks and would like to see the rules strengthened.
“[The petition has had] an incredible response very quickly,” she said.
“It shows that the general public in rural Victoria are completely against having fireworks that can damage, injure or kill livestock, or have an affect on animals in the homes.
“It’s just ridiculous to have fireworks in this day and age when there are alternatives.”
Macedon Ranges council planning and environment director Rebecca Stockfeld said council had been made aware of some concerns within the community regarding fireworks, but did not have powers to regulate the use of them on private land.
“However, to help animal owners prepare in advance, when we are made aware of a firework event we endeavour to notify the public – whether through social media or other channels – in advance of the fireworks,” she said.
Ms Bannister said the advice to remove horses from properties where fireworks were on display nearby was “a huge undertaking”.
“Often owners don’t have their own means of transport to remove the horses,” her petition said.
The petition is set to be presented to Parliament in the new year.
Details: bit.ly/3uZxHqc.
