Thursday 28 November 2024

The 2024-5 summer poses significant risks for Mallee communities, particularly in the Wimmera and Grampians, Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster MP said after receiving a briefing from the National Emergency Management Agency on Wednesday afternoon.

“The fire risk in western Victoria is so significant compared to most of the nation that the Minister provided a briefing for myself and neighbouring federal members to ensure we all get the message out about the potentially dangerous conditions,” Dr Webster said.

Dr Webster said it was important to share fire warnings as summer begins and the Australian Fire Authorities Council (AFAC) today are preparing to update Australians about the expected fire conditions for December through February.

“The national fire risk mapping that I saw, particularly for western Victoria in December is quite alarming.  We’ve had a hot spell recently and that looks likely to continue during December.  Recent storms bringing a green tinge to the landscape could also be fuelling a serious fire fuel load.

“The diligent efforts of fire authorities and preparedness of volunteer firefighters across consecutive seasons has, largely, prevented disaster in our region.  However, we cannot be complacent.  February’s fires at Pomonal and Dadswell’s Bridge underlined how fire conditions can bring swift devastation, and hot weather and large fuel loads concern me that we face the potential for consecutive, concurrent and compounding natural disaster events,” Dr Webster said.

“I am told there are 160 aircraft contracted for the fire season nationwide, including a federal fleet of a C130 air tanker and 3 heavy lift helicopters.  The air tanker was recently in western Victoria to fight fires a fortnight ago.

“It is imperative that Mallee residents prepare, know their bushfire plans and listen to local emergency services.

“I also encourage locals and visitors alike to ensure that when they are travelling through the region or, say, camping in our beautiful national parks, they know the risks and are prepared to change their travel plans on high-risk days.”

‍