VicRoads is doing its bit to reduce the risk and severity of bushfires this summer with vegetation reduction works along its roadsides almost complete.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
VicRoads Regional Director Ewen Nevett said grass mowing started early after working with authorities who’ve predicted a premature start to the fire season this year.
“We’re hearing that we are in for a long, hot and dry summer ahead, that follows on from drying conditions and a lack of rain over the southern half of Australia so far this year,” he said.
“This means we are in for what is classed as an ‘above normal’ fire season, so early preparation is critical.
“Our roads play a key role in a bushfire event, not only for the community in the early stages, but also for our emergency services accessing the fire lines.
“By trimming roadside grass on key routes, there is less likelihood of fires taking off or gaining momentum, while a wide clear road - such as the Western, Glenelg, Sunraysia and Wimmera highways - can provide a type of fire break.”
Grass mowing on other arterial roads around Marnoo, St Arnaud, Avoca, Beaufort, Skipton, Lake Bolac Ararat, Stawell and Halls Gap will be completed by mid-December.
“Most mowing in the Ararat, Northern Grampians and Pyrenees shires is already complete and we’re finishing of a few more arterial roads over the next week or so,” Mr Nevett said.
“We have worked with key agencies including DELWP, local government and emergency services, to determine these high priority areas for extra fire prevention works, based on a fire plan for each municipality.”