The 2021/22 fire season in Victoria looms large with the announcement of fire restrictions which are set to affect areas in the State’s North West.
The Fire Danger Period will begin at 1am on Monday, October the 25th for the Mildura Rural City Council, including the rural towns of Ouyen, Murrayville and Walpeup.
The Yarriambiack Shire Council’s northern segment's Fire Danger Period will also commence a week later at 1am on Monday, November the 1st.
Townships will also be on red alert heading into the upcoming Fire Danger Period after the release of the Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Victoria which identified potential for increased grassfire conditions.
Another factor in potential fire threats, forecast for late spring, is above normal pasture growth in the Wimmera and the Mallee fire districts.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan stressed the importance of community members being prepared for the looming fire season in Victoria.
“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.”
“Once again, we’ve had plenty of winter rainfall and now as the grass and bush rapidly dry out in the North West of the state, the warmer weather, increased yield and potential fuel will mean the fire potential is heightened.”
“Any additional rainfall we do experience in spring will produce more growth, which could very easily result in an even higher fuel load throughout the summer season if not properly managed.”
Mr Heffernan also highlighted the importance of fire preparation and partnerships:
“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.”