Free green waste disposal helps fire preparation

Published on 20 November 2019

Bushfires across New South Wales and Queensland provide a reminder to Shire residents to prepare for fire season.

Corangamite Shire is offering free domestic green waste disposal to Shire residents from Saturday 23 November until Sunday 8 December to help community members get ready for fire season.

Council Manager Environment and Emergency Lyall Bond said green waste can be dropped off at the Naroghid Landfill and all Shire transfer stations.

“Things are still quite green, but it only takes two weeks of hot, dry weather for green vegetation to become a serious hazard,” Mr Bond said.

“Preparation is the key. Now is the time to reduce fuel loads by managing grass growth and cleaning up bark, twigs, leaves and other organic matter around your property.

“Clean dead leaves out of your gutters and off roofs, and get rid of dry grass, leaves, twigs and bark that can build up in corners or under steps and decks.

“Cut back branches overhanging your home and prune lower ones to create separation from ground vegetation.

“Normally a heaped trailer or ute load of green waste would cost $33.40 to dispose of, so this is a great chance for people to clean-up around their properties for free.”

“One overgrown block can pose a hazard to a whole neighbourhood so protect your home, and your neighbours, and clean up now.”

Mr Bond also encouraged residents to have a fire plan and know what to do if there is a fire.

“Now is the best time to understand your fire risk and get prepared, not when a fire starts,” he said.

“You can download a helpful guide from cfa.vic.gov.au/firereadykit.”

For more information about fire prevention, visit www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/Fire-ready or call 5593 7100.