‘Remain vigilant’ is the message ahead of the bushfire season in the Goulburn Valley

By Patrick Morrow

Nov 30, 2022

Fire season on the way: Ensure you are prepared as bushfires and grass fires are still likely to be a common occurrence across the Goulburn Valley region. Photo by Ray Sizer

With summer’s arrival the Country Fire Authority has urged the public to remain ‘vigilant’ for the upcoming bushfire season.

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Australian seasonal bushfire outlook modelling has identified the potential for increased grass fire conditions for the 2022-23 fire season due to significant grass growth and delayed harvest activities.

The fire season risk is predicted to be “normal” across the state, except for parts of the central, north-east and eastern regions where the potential for a bushfire is below normal.

The La Niña weather pattern led to widespread rainfall and flooding across the Goulburn Valley in October and CFA chief fire officer Steve Pitcher said flooding had hindered fuel mitigation efforts.

“Widespread rainfall in winter and spring has led to high fuel loads across the region, and we can expect to see significant grass fires to start the fire season,” Mr Pitcher said.

Residents across the Goulburn Valley are also urged to ensure they understand the new Australian Fire Danger Rating System.

The new system has four ratings — moderate, high, extreme and catastrophic — and means the same system will be in place across the country.

The CFA has already announced fire restrictions for controlled burn-offs for the Gannawarra local government area, which encompasses the town of Kerang, from Monday, December 5.