On Sunday 19 January, brigades from District 2 and 14 joined forces to deliver a strategic controlled burn in the Sebastian area north-west of Bendigo.
The 13km burn between Bendigo-Pyramid Road and the rail line running parallel has now reduced the potential spread of a fire from the north or west entering the Greater Bendigo National Park which would pose a risk to life and property as well as potentially draining state resources for an extended period of time.
Beyond this benefit, less experienced members commented on the operational benefit they got from participating, while others in command positions also gained valuable experience in conducting planned burns.
The planning of this burn was undertaken in consultation with the local CFA brigade and group, as well as City of Greater Bendigo Council. It considered specialist environmental advice provided through the review process undertaken on all CFA planned burns. It also included permissions from the land manager V/Line and Department of Transport to ensure the burn was carried out to agreed safety standards.
Positive feedback was also received from local community members who were informed about the burn through a letterbox drop, local advertising, social media and portable message boards.
Although we are still in the Fire Danger Period, burns can be carried out when the weather conditions provide a window of opportunity.
With extensive planning, along with the controls and resources that are in place, this is an example of how CFA and other agencies can undertake these works in a safe and controlled way.
| Submitted by |
Vegetation Management Team, North West Region |