Golden Plains Shire Council is urging residents to continue to be fire-safe and comply with fire restrictions, as there has been a rise in reports of illegal bonfires.
Councillor Helena Kirby, Mayor of Golden Plains Shire Council advises residents that fire restrictions are still in place.
“The CFA has not yet advised when the Fire Danger Period will end (and when fire restrictions will be lifted) in Golden Plains Shire, which means it is illegal for residents and visitors to light a bonfire. While summer is over, the Fire Danger Period is not.
“It is concerning that a number of calls have already come through to Council in relation to illegal bonfires in the Shire – the Fire Danger Period is still in place for all of Golden Plains Shire and this means there is considerable risk of a seemingly harmless bonfire becoming out of control.
“Illegal fires that are started during the Fire Danger Period can result in a $7,972.50 fine and even 12 months imprisonment. Golden Plains Shire Council does not issue permits for bonfires; we only issue permits for stubble burns on large rural properties for agricultural purposes.”
“I implore Golden Plains Shire residents to help keep our communities safe by complying with fire restrictions; we do not want to see any kind of fire start in our Shire, especially one that could have been prevented,” said Mayor Kirby.
The CFA introduces fire restrictions for all private land in Golden Plains Shire over the summer period each year. Fire restrictions are determined by the CFA in response to weather and fuel curing in the lead up to summer and they advise Council accordingly when the restrictions are to be lifted.
More information about fire restrictions can be found on Council’s website; search ‘Fire restrictions’, or visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au. Residents with enquiries can also get in touch with Council’s Emergency Management team to find out more on 5220 7111 or [email protected].