Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) will take advantage of favourable weather and forest
conditions in the coming weeks to undertake planned burns to reduce the threat of bushfires to
communities across Greater Melbourne.
FFMVic deputy chief fire officer Tamara Beckett said planned burning is “one of the most
effective ways we can reduce the impact bushfires have on people, property and the environment”.
“Reducing ground level fuels such as leaves, sticks and fallen branches means fires are less intense
and slower to spread, making it more likely that firefighters can keep bushfires small and contain
them before they pose a risk to communities,” she said.
“The wetter and cooler conditions this summer will mean communities can expect to see firefighters
conducting planned burns if the weather and forest conditions are suitable and it is safe to do so.”
High priority burns are planned on public land near communities around the Dandenong and Yarra
Ranges as well as St Andrews.
“People in these communities may see and smell smoke, and some roads and forests may be
closed for public safety while these works are being undertaken,” Ms Beckett said.
“We know that smoke from planned burns may concern some people, and we work with
communities and stakeholders to reduce smoke impacts as much as possible.
“However, it’s important that crews take every opportunity to reduce fuel loads while conditions are
suitable.”
FFMVic works closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to assess weather conditions – such as
humidity, temperature, and wind speed – and will only carry out burns when conditions are safe to
do so.
The fuel management program is underpinned by scientific evidence and local knowledge, including
bushfire history, to make sure works are focused where they can be most effective.
As well as burning, FFMVic crews conduct mechanical works such as mowing, slashing, clearing,
and creating and maintaining strategic fuel breaks to reduce bushfire risk.
FFMVic also works with Traditional Owners to deliver its fuel management program and supports
aspirations to undertake cultural burning practices.
When and where planned burns are happening is available online.
Details: www.vic.gov.au/plannedburns
