Free domestic green waste disposal for fire prep

Published on 21 October 2024

In preparation for the fire season, Corangamite Shire Council will offer free domestic green waste drop offs from Saturday 26 October until Sunday 17 November.

Corangamite Shire Chief Executive Officer David Rae said fire authorities had advised there is potential for an early start to the fire season if warm, dry conditions continue to dry out fuels towards summer.

“In preparation for the fire season, Council will accept domestic green waste for free at Corangamite Regional Landfill and all Council transfer stations from Saturday 26 October until Sunday 17 November inclusive.

“This is to encourage residents to clean up their properties in preparation for the fire season. It is for non-commercial customers only.

“Winter and spring have seen a “green drought’’ across the Shire where paddocks appeared green on top, but very low soil moisture.

“That bit of green doesn’t mean it’s OK to sit back. It only takes two weeks of hot, dry weather for green vegetation to become a serious hazard.

“Now is the time to get rid of dry grass, leaves, twigs and bark in your gutters and around your house.

“Normally a heaped trailer or ute load of green waste would cost $40 to drop off. For the next three weeks it’s free.

“One overgrown block can pose a hazard to a whole neighbourhood so cleaning up now can help protect you, your home and your neighbours.”

Mr Rae encouraged residents to have a fire plan and to make sure all family members know what to do if there is a fire.

“Now is the best time to understand your fire risk and get prepared, not when a fire starts,” he said.

“You can download a guide from cfa.vic.gov.au/firereadykit

Fire inspections will start in the next couple of weeks.

For more information about fire prevention, visit www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/Fire-ready or call 5593 7100.