As we gear up to face this fire season, I wanted to impress upon every member of our community the importance of looking out for each other when it comes to bushfires.
Our region is truly special, but it’s up to us to protect and nurture it, especially during the fire season.
As we know all too well from the 2018 Gracemere fires, bushfires can catch us off guard, putting lives and property at risk.
We all have a shared responsibility to be vigilant and prepared.
I want to emphasise the importance of taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of our families, homes, and environment.
By working together and following some simple guidelines, we can significantly reduce the impact of bushfires on our community.
It’s easy to fall into the belief that ‘it won’t happen to me.’
But as we have seen with countless bushfires both here and across the world, fire does not discriminate.
So give your home some extra breathing room by clearing the dry leaves and overgrown vegetation, mowing your lawn regularly, trimming overhanging branches and getting rid of flammable materials that can catch fire from around your property.
Spend some time talking with your family about where to go and how to stay connected if you need to evacuate.
Develop a bushfire survival plan and think about packing an emergency kit with the basics like snacks and water, first aid, pet food, battery powered radio and important documents and medications.
Also, think about your neighbours, especially those who might need a hand during a crisis.
A little help goes a long way.
Keep an eye on updates from our local heroes and authorities. They’re here to help, and staying informed is key.
Council will also continue to work with agencies like the Department of Resources, and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services to undertake bushfire mitigation steps across the region including planned burns.
By getting ready and staying connected, we can all face the fire season head-on, together.
Let’s protect our homes, our family, and this incredible place we call home.
Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s support one another.
Visit our emergency dashboard for plans, resources and advice.
