Fire authorities in the Geelong region say they’re ready for an early start to a high-risk bushfire season, with planned burns scheduled over coming weeks at sites in the Otways and along the Great Ocean Road.
The Bureau of Meteorology has declared an El Niño event is underway – meaning a drier and warmer Spring and a prolonged fire season compared to recent years.
Forest Fire Management Victoria Deputy Chief Fire Officer, David Rourke, said they’re well prepared to respond to any event.
“We have over 200 firefighters available to us, to deploy to any incident that might occur across the region,” he said.
“And we’ve also got an additional seasonal workforce that comes on each year.”
Mr. Rourke said while planned burning around the region occurs all year, fire management staff will be ramping things up over the coming months at key sites across the Otways and Great Ocean Road.
“Year-round, we are focused on actions with the greatest impact to minimise bushfire risk for communities and the environment, including planned burning, slashing and maintenance of strategic fuel break networks,” he said.
“The community has an important role to play as well, which is why we’re reminding everyone to understand their local risks, stay informed and take action now to prepare themselves and their properties.”
People may see smoke, firefighting vehicles, aircraft, and crews in the area.
