August 2008

Warrandyte Diary

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Friendly fire protects our bush

Official plans are well underway to help protect the Warrandyte area against bushfires this coming summer.

The Department of Sustainability and Environment has already scheduled fuel reduction burns for Warrandyte and North Warrandyte.

In Warrandyte, burns are planned for the Fourth Hill area (Melways 23F12) and for Black Flat in the State Park (23J10). In North Warrandyte, the Diary believes the Koornong (23J7) will be targeted.

"These burns are all relatively small but have been strategically planned to reduce the risk of fire and offer protection to nearby houses," Anna Chiczewski of DSE Port Phillip region told the Diary.

"Last season we took full advantage of suitable weather conditions to achieve all our planned burns, whereas the year before there were fewer suitable days.

"With the weather being the most important--yet least variable factor--we will ensure that we have the firefighters and equipment available and ready to go when the conditions allow."

The plans are developed in consultation with local residents, councils, CFA, Parks Victoria and Melbourne Water. "The draft plans will then be displayed for a month to gather further comment in time for the start of spring burning," Ms Chiczewski said.

The draft plans can be viewed on the DSE website or at DSE and Parks Victoria offices in Box Hill. Comments and queries should be directed to Anna Chiczewski on 9296 4504.