In spite of being a metropolitan area, Whitehorse has over 200 hectares of bushland reserves, many backing on to private property. These provide a wonderful amenity for residents but also represent a bushfire risk.
While few Melbourne residents would be aware of the fact, over the past five years a number of fire outbreaks of varying degrees have occurred in the reserves. This threat has been exacerbated by Melbourne’s prolonged drought over the previous three years.
Accordingly, a Bushland Management Strategy, has been developed. In 1997, this won a Community Service Award for the City during Fire Awareness Week.
Under the strategy, Council monitors reserves, carrying out an annual fire inspection in conjunction with local fire authorities.
In addition to this, to reduce fuel on the ground, the City conducts annual controlled burns in liaison with the Environmental Protection Authority. Targeted slashing of fire breaks helps prevent fire spreading and provides ready access to firefighters.
Manager Parks Environment and Recreation, David Dunstan, said it is clear the Strategy is working and working well.
“During this year’s exceptionally hot and dry summer we have had no significant outbreaks,” he said.
“This is partly due to a scientifically determined arrangement that swings patrols into action when a certain combination of fire danger conditions is reached.”
A large part of the campaign is not only tackling outbreaks but educating residents to be aware of the risks and conditions which add to those risks.
Brochures are distributed to residents living near the reserves requesting they carry out maintenance on their own properties. This includes cutting long dry grass, safely storing flammable materials and clearing leaves from gutters.
The Strategy has earned high praise from the Melbourne Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Service.
