Interagency collaboration to reduce fire risk
A range of emergency services have toured Coliban Water’s three main reservoirs as part of fire season preparedness.
Representatives from the Country Fire Authority, Victoria Police, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and Fire Rescue Victoria participated in the tour earlier this month.
Coliban Water General Manager Asset Lifecycle Marsha McMonigle said those who attended shared a common goal of protecting and supporting our communities.
“It’s important to engage with our colleagues at these agencies and share valuable information about reservoir management. It’s about protecting our people and our assets in the event of an emergency – so for example, this could mean sharing details about key access points,” she said.
“If there is an incident on our land, emergency services will also need to know where likely fire ignition points might be.”
Those who attended are part of the Macedon Ranges Municipal Fire Planning Committee, which is a cross agency committee coordinated by Macedon Ranges Shire Council.
“By providing a chance for them to get to know our reservoirs, it means we're better connected, and we can have a conversation before it becomes a bigger issue.
“The knowledge of our Headworks Team instilled a sense of confidence in terms of our current land management approach,” Ms McMonigle said.
This includes pest plant management and general maintenance such as clearing away fallen tree limbs and debris. This reduces fuel load and fire risk during warmer months.
“This work also helps us to protect water quality before it reaches our water treatment plants. It’s a win-win,” she said.
“We can all play a part in fire preparedness, and this is important given the Macedon Ranges can be one of the highest fire risk areas in the state.”
When preparing for the fire season, residents should ensure they have an alternate source of water, know who to contact in an emergency and understand the risks of their property. A Fire Ready Kit is available from the CFA website.
Last updated on 30 Sep 2024