THE time to prepare for the upcoming fire season is here, with Southern Grampian Shire Council (SGSC)’s Municipal Fire Prevention Officers set to commence property inspections across the Southern Grampians over the coming weeks.

Fire Prevention Notices will be issued to properties with potential fire hazards like excess vegetation or other flammable materials.

These notices will communicate what needs to be removed to reduce the risk of fire.

Notices issued outline required actions needed to ensure properties reach an appropriate standard under the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 for the ensuing Fire Danger Period.

SGSC Wellbeing, Planning and Regulation director, Rory Neeson said it was important residents begin to think about preparing their properties now.

“Even though the warm weather hasn’t fully arrived yet, it’s important to start planning now,” he said.

“The impending hot weather mixed with the limited winter rainfall will contribute to a high fire risk for the upcoming summer season.

“It’s important that residents get on top of their properties now to minimise grasses and reduce fine fuels like sticks, barks and leaves found around the home.

Mr Neeson said Council will be starting property inspections from November 11 and issuing fire prevention notices to those who are identified as needing to reduce fire hazards.

“The required works must be completed by the allocated date featured on the Notice or risk being issued an infringement notice,” he said.

“Reducing excess fuels can go a long way in minimising the intensity and spread of a potential fire on your property.

“But remember to be effective, this maintenance work must be continued throughout the entire Fire Danger Period and not carried out just as a once off.”

Residents who find themselves struggling to complete works as requested by the Notice deadline including access, physical limitations or other compounding factors, are encouraged to contact Council to discuss their options.

Resources to help prepare properties for the upcoming Fire Danger Period can be found on the Country Fire Authority website at

bit.ly/3YOOFaB

For more information on Fire Prevention Notices, visit the Council Website, or keep up to date by subscribing to Southern Grampians Now.