​Prepare your property ahead of the upcoming Fire Season

With the fire season quickly approaching, Towong Shire Council is encouraging our communities to take steps to be prepared. You may be aware that the fire danger period can range from any time in November until May, depending on the level of risk predicted for the season. Further information about the fire danger period can be found at: cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-danger-period-restrictions

Properties can be prepared for the season by taking simple steps such as cutting back long grasses to reduce fuel load.

Towong Shire Council Mayor Andrew Whitehead said that the rain over the last few months has meant that grasses are longer than they have been for some time.

“Everyone needs to be aware of their responsibilities to maintain their properties, particularly those in areas where grass fires can quickly take hold,” he said.

“Although we’ve had a wet spring, as the weather starts to warm up, the risk of bushfire will increase.

 “Keeping your grass level below 10cm will assist in reducing the risk to you and your neighbours.”

We want to make sure our communities are safe so our Municipal Fire Prevention Officers (MFPO) will be commencing inspections on vacant land over November and December.

“If we receive a complaint about excessive vegetation or grass on vacant or unmaintained land, Council officers will inspect the property and if required, issue a Notice to Comply or a Fire Prevention Notice,” Mayor Whitehead said.

If you receive a notice, please ensure that the required works are carried out by the completion date and then maintain your properties for the duration of the Fire Danger Period. If you have any questions about preparing your property for the upcoming Fire Danger Period, please visit If you need further information about preparing your property, please go to: cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare or get in contact with your local CFA.