New bushfire plan to help protect local communities

Fraser Coast Regional Council has adopted a new plan to help reduce the risk of bushfires and protect local communities.

The Bushfire Risk Mitigation Strategy sets out practical steps Council will take on the land it manages, from building and maintaining fire access trails to carrying out planned burns in high-risk areas.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the plan was about being prepared and reducing the danger on Council-managed land before disaster strikes.

“We’ve all seen the devastation that bushfires can cause, such as the 2018 fire at Tinnanbar and the 2020 fire on K’gari that burned for two months and scorched half the island,” he said.

“This plan helps us take early action to reduce bushfire risk close to homes, schools, parks and community facilities right across the Fraser Coast.”

The Strategy was developed by a specialist consultant and informed by early discussions with the Queensland Fire Department, local Rural Fire Brigades, Traditional Owners and other land management groups. It includes:

• A five-year program of fire trail maintenance and hazard reduction burns across the region
• Detailed plans for managing risk in 10 high-priority bushland reserves
• Guidelines to reduce fire risk while protecting local plants and wildlife
• Ongoing coordination with emergency services and local Rural Fire Brigades to ensure a rapid and effective response when needed

A dedicated Council officer has been appointed to lead the delivery of the plan, with work starting this year.

Council has identified priority sites based on risk modelling, fire history and proximity to populated areas. These will be the focus of early hazard reduction and vegetation management activities.

Cr Seymour said the strategy builds on Council’s commitment to ensuring the Fraser Coast is a resilient and environmentally responsible region.

“This is about doing the groundwork now, so we’re not caught unprepared in the future. It’s about keeping our residents safe, reducing pressure on emergency services, and helping our region bounce back quicker if a fire does occur,” he said.

“Every landholder has a responsibility to be prepared and manage their bushfire risks, and this plan is all about Council managing the risk on the land it’s responsible for.”