Message from the Mayor - 17 December, 2024

The CFA's declared Fire Danger Period will begin in the Yarra Ranges on 23 December.

We all know that this formally starts the fire season in the Yarra Ranges, but we also know that bushfires don't wait for ideal timing, and often take us by surprise.

If you haven't already, now is the best time to prepare your property for summer. Pruning back vegetation near your home, making sure your grass is cut, and that tree debris like bark and twigs are disposed of in your FOGO bin will go a long way to making sure your property is as safe as possible for hot, dry weather.

Clearing roof spouting, around and under decks, and having a tidy up are also great ways to keep your home safe.

But being safe isn't just about reducing fuel loads. It's about checking the CFA's Fire Danger Ratings regularly, being familiar with what the ratings mean for you and, crucially, what they mean for your family's fire plan.

Will you leave on a day of Extreme Fire Danger? Or the day before a Catastrophic forecast? What is your plan for your pets, where would you go out of the region?

It's essential to have these conversations now, because if the worst happens, it can be difficult to think straight or plan, and there is often not much time to do it.

In all likelihood, many of us won't need to enact our fire plans this year. But it's much better to have one ready than to need one urgently and not have it.

We're working through our regularly-programmed works ahead of the fire season, with 357 hazard inspections undertaken and 221 fire prevention notices issued to property owners.

We're also working to reduce fuel loads by roadsides, in parks and reserves - a program that will run for much of the warmer months.

If you're going to burn off in the very few days before the Fire Danger Period, check conditions and whether you're able to burn off at your property, and always register burns with Fire Permits Victoria online or by calling ESTA on 1800 668 511.

Check the CFA website regularly for conditions over summer and total fire ban announcements and make sure to install the Emergency Victoria app for local notifications.

On behalf of all of Council, have a safe and merry Christmas, a great holiday season and remember to shop local for your gifts, support local businesses on your travels and be safe on the roads.

Cr Jim Child

Mayor of Yarra Ranges