Tanks one part of fire season prep

East Gippsland Shire Council is working closely with local Country Fire Authority brigades to install 30 static water supply tanks across the region for use in an emergency.

The concrete water tanks hold 46,000 litres of water and are used by the CFA only. Sixteen tanks are being jointly funded by the CFA and Council with another 14 water tanks installed by Council using Federal Government drought funding.

The tanks are located at Genoa, Gipsy Point, Cann River, Bonang, Newmerella and Buchan South, nine in the Nowa Nowa area, eight in the High Country and seven in the west of the region.

Mayor Cr Natalie O’Connell said Council is pleased to be able to fund the 14 static water supply tanks as part of drought support funding, and confirmed a further four tanks, co-funded with the CFA, will be installed at Swan Reach, Kalimna, Tamboon and Cape Conran prior to the fire season.

Operations Manager for CFA District 11 Daryll Hunter said the water tanks provide a ready water source for multiple vehicles in an emergency, ease of access and the turnaround time for the crews is reduced.

“The local CFA brigades decided on the location of the static water supply so they are close to communities and provide the quickest turnaround point for tankers to protect our communities,” Mr Hunter said.

Cr O’Connell said Council is also preparing for the summer season with bushfire mitigation plans underway, this includes roadside clearing, slashing and mowing, tree management and vegetation clearing.

“Our fire prevention program also includes ensuring maintenance of fire tracks, powerline clearance, removing hazardous trees, clearing roadsides, water tank maintenance and environmental works in reserves,” Cr O’Connell said.

“It is important for residents to have a think about their own properties and start to get them ready for summer by conducting regular maintenance of their property, including clearing long grass, timber and wood stores, gutters and drains.”

Green waste disposal is free at Council’s Bairnsdale, Lakes Entrance, Cann River, Bruthen, Buchan, Mallacoota, Marlo, Metung, Omeo, Orbost and Swifts Creek waste facilities.

Fire restrictions are now in place and the CFA website has advice on restrictions and preparing your property.

East Gippsland Shire Council’s Emergency Management Coordinator Shane Turner and Operations Manager for CFA District 11 Daryll Hunter at one of the many emergency water tanks installed across the region. This tank, on Redcourt Lane, is one of six the western part of the shire.