COMMUNITY campaigner Fred Crump is calling on the state and local governments to do more to maintain roadside corridors to reduce the fire danger this summer. The call comes amid warnings from the Country Fire Authority about heightened risks this fire season, and calls on individuals to reduce vegetation loads around their properties.
“The CFA are asking individuals to act to reduce the fire risk, but what about state and local governments?” said Crump. “The roadsides are an absolute disgrace. Very little maintenance is being done, and the grass and undergrowth is the worst I have ever seen.”
Crump believes the issue is being swept under the carpet, and the time has come to speak out. “The grass should be cut and maintained. Do we have to wait until we have a major fire to realise the importance of maintaining these road reserves?”
Crump believes that as temperatures rise, and the fire risk gets higher, governments are doing less rather than more. “It is also a safety issue. Some of the grass is so long at roundabouts and intersections, it is hard to see oncoming cars. It is ridiculous.” “There just doesn’t seem to be any concern these days, and the local and state governments will end up regretting their inaction.”
Crump’s call comes as Victorians are being urged to continue preparing for increased fire activity across large parts of the state this summer, according to the Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for Summer. A lack of rainfall across the Mornington Peninsula has resulted in more fuels available and an increased chance of fires. In addition, the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a higher chance of warmer maximum day and night temperatures over summer.
“Preparing for the higher risk weather season is a shared responsibility, and we’re asking the community to take action now to stay safe,” said Emergency Management Commissioner, Rick Nugent. “It’s critical that you understand your fire risk – whether you’re at home, at work or on holiday. Know where you can go to receive emergency information and never rely on just one source.”
Country Fire Authority Chief Officer, Jason Heffernan, said “Now is the time for Victorians to understand their local risks, continue preparing their properties diligently, and to plan ahead with their families by reviewing their Bushfire Survival Plan.”
Keep up to date with the Fire Danger Ratings and warnings on the VicEmergency app and VicEmergency website. Make a fire plan at fireplanner.vic.gov.au.
First published in the Mornington News – 7 January 2025
