The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien has called on the Minister for Emergency Services to explain why South Gippsland has entered the Fire Danger Period earlier than neighbouring areas.
Mr O’Brien said he has heard from a number of frustrated landholders who are concerned about the decision.
“Many farmers are telling me they’ve simply not had the chance to complete essential fuel reduction burns or clean up fallen trees and branches after the recent wet and windy weather,” Mr O’Brien said.
“They’re perplexed that South Gippsland is already under fire restrictions while Bass Coast, right next door, is not.”
Mr O’Brien said he fully supports the CFA and the work of local volunteers who have input into the Fire Danger Period decision, but believes communities deserve a clear explanation of how the process works.
“Our local CFA brigades do an outstanding job and are deeply respected in our community. CFA of course has to make its decision based on the evidence of seasonal conditions and the state of our grasslands and forest.
“This is about ensuring that people on the ground, including local brigades, farmers and residents, have confidence in how these decisions are made.”
Mr O’Brien encouraged local landholders who still need to undertake essential preparation work to apply for a permit through the official CFA website.
“Anyone who needs to continue preparing their property against bushfire risk should visit firepermits.vic.gov.au to apply for a permit.”