Princetown better prepared for emergencies

Published on 06 December 2024

As landowners prepare their properties for the approaching bushfire season, Princetown has a new asset to help keep the public safe.

Princetown CFA, community and Corangamite Shire Council have partnered to commission a new a firefighting water supply tank at the entrance to town.

“The Princetown Fire Brigade identified the need for the tank to provide a critical boost for fire emergencies in or close to the Princetown township,” Council’s Acting Community Safety and Resilience Coordinator Bryce Morden said.

“Because the township is not connected to mains water, there are no fire plugs for firefighters to access during fires.

“Previously, water for firefighting at Princetown has been drawn from the Gellibrand River or from private water tanks where incidents occur. This tank provides firefighters with a reliable source of water in case of a fire in or near the township.”

Princetown Fire Brigade First Lieutenant Jason Newcombe said the tank gave firefighters a reliable water source close to the township.

“It will speed up our response time. If we get an incident it will be so much quicker to refill from the tank than the river.

“The township has no reticulated water supply so it left the town a little bit vulnerable if there is an issue. Other than existing farm dams and the river, we haven’t got many other sources. It will benefit the whole Great Ocean Road in that area.”

Council engaged local earthworks contractors to prepare the tank pad and fire truck access and a local supplier installed the tank and signage.

CFA brigades across the Shire are always on the lookout for new members. Prospective volunteers can find out more or apply to join at cfa.vic.gov.au/volunteers-careers/volunteer-with-cfa

Mr Morden encouraged residents to prepare and practice a fire plan, assemble a fire ready kit and monitor local warnings and conditions throughout the summer months.

For more information go to corangamite.vic.gov.au/Fire-ready