Critical work underway to manage fire risk

BASS Coast agencies have been working hard to ensure the region is prepared for the fire season, while locals and visitors are being invited learn more about fire safety.
The Fire Danger Period for Bass Coast was declared from January 10, to May 1, 2022.
Bass Coast’s Fire Risk Working Group makes sure the region is fire ready through the Municipal Fire Management Plan, which identifies different levels of bushfire risk for different localities and identifies how to reduce the risk.
Members include the CFA, Victoria Police, Parks Victoria, the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), Phillip Island Nature Parks (PINP), Bass Coast Shire Council and VicRoads.
The agencies work together with AusNet Services, Westernport Water and South Gippsland Water to plan for potential bushfire emergencies in Bass Coast.
PINP ranger in charge Ben Thomas, said PINP was busy preparing for the fire season with rangers undergoing firefighter training, a new dedicated fire unit introduced, and extra resourcing brought in for slashing and widening fire breaks.
“Our primary prevention activities include vegetation management and slashing of strategic fuel breaks near residential areas, along with education, ranger patrols and enforcing park regulations,” Mr Thomas said.
Tim Bessell-Browne, Parks Victoria ranger in charge - Fire and Emergency (South Gippsland District) said Parks Victoria was also well prepared.
“The recent spring season has seen an amazing grass growing period. If we have a dry spell in the area, this grass will dry out and pose a higher risk of fast moving grass fires,” Tim said.
“Our team are working hard to keep this grass down by slashing fuel breaks and access trails.”
Bass Coast Shire Council Mayor, Cr Michael Whelan, added it’s important to be vigilant about fuel loads.
“It’s fair to say that we’ve been distracted by the pandemic for the last two years, but we shouldn’t forget the horrors of the Black Summer bushfires in late 2019 and early 2020,” Cr Whelan said.
“Fast-moving grass fires are the biggest risk in Bass Coast and can catch people off-guard.
“As of January 1, under the Local Laws, we’ll be issuing a $300 infringement to property owners within the townships with reported grass over 30cm long.
“Council Fire Prevention Officers have also been inspecting blocks and issuing a Notice to Comply to property owners with long grass and they then have 21 days to cut it or council organises a contractor to do it, with the property owner bearing the cost.”
Victoria Police will be conducting targeted patrols during the Fire Danger Period.
Anyone detected lighting fires or using illegal fireworks during the Fire Danger Period will be prosecuted.
Anyone who sees anything suspicious is encouraged to contact police on ‘000’ or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.