Funding to lessen bushfire risk

The City of Gosnells has received a $464,000 boost to its bushfire mitigation plans this summer.

The money, part of the State Government’s 2020/21 Mitigation Activity Fund Grants Program, will fund 33 additional activities to reduce bushfire risk in the City.

These activities include prescribed burning, forestry mulching, firebreak installation and upgrades, slashing, and limiting access to high bushfire risk areas by installing physical barriers.

Mayor David Goode said the funding was a welcome addition to the City’s overall bushfire mitigation plans.

“This funding is focused on reducing the risk of major fires in the City, which could result in significant loss of property or lives,” he said.

“It will be used to target high risk areas across the City, including the Darling Scarp around Martin, Bickley and Orange Grove, where the terrain is difficult, access is limited and high fuel loads increase the risk of bushfires.”

Mayor Goode encouraged residents to join the City’s efforts to protect the community from the devastation of bushfire this summer.

“We need the whole community to work together and we are calling for residents and property owners to ensure their properties comply with the Annual Fire Hazard Reduction Notice Requirements.”

The Prohibited Burning Period commenced on 1 December and all rural property owners should have now completed their firebreaks. All other property owners are required to keep their land free from flammable materials, such as dried vegetation, prunings and general rubbish, higher than 10cm.

For more information, please call the City on 9397 3000 or visit www.gosnells.wa.gov.au.