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Regional Fire Plans Provide Future Directions

The Department of Sustainability & Environment (DSE) has released a comprehensive three-year plan which details proposed fuel reduction burning activities on public land in the Gippsland region.

By Department of Sustainability and Environment - 21st November 2005 - Back to News

The region’s Fire Operations Plan was recently finalised following an extensive consultation process with local communities, interest groups and government organisations.

Regional Fire Manager, David Tainsh said community feedback sessions were held throughout the region earlier this year which provided valuable ideas and information when planning fuel reduction burns.

"Feedback from the community, interest groups and government organisations has helped us plan burns which will best meet community aspirations and priorities, while achieving greater protection from wildfire," Mr Tainsh said.

"I would particularly like to thank the CFA brigades in the region who participated in the consultation process and provided valuable input."

The three-year plans, which are reviewed annually, assist DSE to set priorities in the way public land is managed to effectively reduce fire hazards and help protect both public and private land from wildfire.

Mr Tainsh said the release of the final plan coincides with the commencement of the Gippsland region’s spring burning program, which, given suitable weather conditions will see several burning operations undertaken across the region over the next few weeks.

"Weather permitting, burns will be conducted throughout the region to further reduce fuel loads on public land in preparation for the coming fire season."

For further information about the Fire Operation Plans contact your local DSE office, visit www.dse.vic.gov.au or contact the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on free call 1800 240 667.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  The 2026 Bass Coast Sustainability Festival at Blue Gum Reserve, Cowes, celebrates community, creativity, and environmental care with workshops, live music, stalls, food, and special guest Craig Reucassell.
• One Gippsland urges new major event to replace MotoGP, boosting tourism and regional economy
  One Gippsland urges the 2026 Victorian budget to replace MotoGP with a new major event, boosting tourism, jobs, and economic growth while supporting cultural, nature-based, and renewable energy initiatives.
• Mallacoota community invited to share ideas for long-term future of Foreshore Holiday Park drop-in sessions on 10 and 13 April 2026
  Mallacoota residents and park users are invited to informal drop-in sessions to share feedback, helping shape the Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park master plan and guide its future improvements.
• Gippsland Water launches pop-up events inviting Latrobe Valley residents to help shape future water services and planning decisions
  Gippsland Water will host pop-up events across the Latrobe Valley, inviting community feedback to help shape future water services, pricing, and infrastructure planning.
• Join Omeo's visitor economy through tourism mapping and justice precinct masterplan vision sessions on 14 September 2025
  Omeo visitor economy's future will be shaped through community sessions presenting the Tourism Ecosystem Mapping Report and Draft Justice Precinct Masterplan, highlighting heritage, recreation, and opportunities to attract investment.
• Latrobe City Council seeks community feedback on the future of Moe Gardens Caravan Park as lease nears end
  Latrobe City Council is inviting community feedback on the future of Moe Gardens Caravan Park, with the current operator's lease expiring in May 2026 under Crown Land Leasing Policy requirements for open and impartial processes.
• East Gippsland hosts Youth Agritech Expo showcasing farming futures and career pathways for young people on 17 September 2025
  East Gippsland will host the Youth Agritech Expo, offering farm tours, hands-on experiences, and showcasing agricultural career pathways, technology, and innovation to inspire the next generation and build a skilled workforce.
• Community invited to join Project Reference Group shaping East Gippsland’s future aquatic strategy and facilities planning
  East Gippsland community members are invited to join a Project Reference Group to help shape the new Aquatic Strategy, guiding future facility planning, investment, and service delivery across the shire.
• Danny O'Brien visits Gippsland schools honouring Anzac Legacy by planting 100 lone pines across Victoria
  Gippsland schools joined the "100 Lone Pines Project," with Danny O’Brien delivering seedlings, connecting students to Gallipoli history and honoring the Anzac legacy through planting descendant pines across Victoria.
• Melina Bath criticises politicised VEAC, failing land management, while $1.4M could fund bushfire prevention, environmental services
  Melina Bath warns Victorian hunters and anglers against reduced services as Labor pushes VFA-GMA merger, urging proper funding, training, and enforcement to protect compliance, sustainability, and regional outdoor traditions.
• Baw Baw Shire aquatic facilities future management decision announced
  Baw Baw Council will continue current aquatic and leisure facility operations with YMCA Victoria for 12 months, ensuring service continuity while assessing future management and preparing for a future tender process.
• Heyfield Wetlands visitors can now refill bottles and provide water for dogs using new fountain
  Heyfield Wetlands receives new drinking fountain, supporting community recreation, hydration, pets and Gippsland Water’s broader public refill network initiative.
• Wellington Shire Council seeks feedback on the Domestic Animal Management Plan Review until 24 September 2025
  Wellington Shire Council's draft Domestic Animal Management Plan outlines priorities for responsible pet ownership, safety, and welfare, inviting community feedback from 28 August to 24 September 2025.
• Bass Coast Shire Council invites community to help shape the next stage of Climate Action Plan at Berninneit in Cowes 25 October 2026
  Bass Coast Shire Council invites the community to a Climate Action Plan Review Workshop to reflect on progress, share ideas, and help shape the next five years of local climate action.
• Wellington Sustainability Festival returns with various workshops and family-friendly fun celebrating sustainable living in Sale on 14 March 2026
  The Wellington Sustainability Festival returns Saturday 14 March in Sale, offering workshops, garden tours, live music, kids’ activities, eco-market stalls, renewable energy displays, and family-friendly sustainable living experiences.
• Third year of Bairnsdale sewer renewal project secures future wastewater system with innovative relining
  Bairnsdale’s sewer renewal project enters year three, using CCTV inspections and trenchless relining to upgrade ageing pipes, reduce disruption, and improve reliability, with $650,000 annually invested and works guaranteed for 50 years.
• Tim Bull criticises Minister Dimopoulos for dismissing G-Wagon concerns, warning Gippsland’s fire preparedness is reduced
  Tim Bull criticises Environment Minister Dimopoulos for dismissing concerns about withdrawn G-Wagon firefighting vehicles, warning Gippsland faces reduced fire preparedness and urging clear answers before the upcoming fire season.
• Darren Chester meets new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss future opportunities for East Gippsland Healthcare
  Darren Chester met new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss healthcare challenges, commend local innovations improving patient care, and strengthen collaboration to deliver high-quality, accessible health services across East Gippsland.
• Eat Drink Play Gippsland celebrates food, wine, music and stories that showcase the region's vibrant spirit
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland blends local wine, food, and stories with live music, chats with growers, family fun, and creative experiences celebrating the region's vibrant culture and community spirit.
• Wellington Shire Council invites community feedback on the Great Southern Rail Trail Master Plan to boost tourism by 8 May 2026
  With the Alberton-Welshpool link complete, Wellington’s Great Southern Rail Trail Master Plan will guide improvements, boost tourism, support local businesses, and involve the community in shaping a sustainable, high-quality trail.
• Melina Bath launches e-petition urging Labor to enforce gun laws properly and protect law-abiding firearm owners in Gippsland
  Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath and firearm owner Ryan Weeratunge launch e-petition urging Labor to enforce existing gun laws, avoid rushed changes, and consult law-abiding owners to ensure community safety.
• Latrobe City invites community input to shape the 2026/27 budget and future priorities, submit feedback by 17 November 2025
  Latrobe City Council is seeking community input to help shape the 2026/27 Budget. Share your priorities via council's Have Your Say platform by 5pm, Monday 17 November 2025.
• Baw Baw Shire residents urged to be vigilant and follow safety rules despite fire restriction ease
  Despite eased restrictions, fire risk remains. Residents can conduct burn-offs under strict rules, must supervise fires, follow regulations, and stay alert as total fire ban days may still apply.
• Darren Chester congratulates Glengarry Primary 2026 student leaders, inspiring future community, volunteer and civic leadership development
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester congratulated Glengarry Primary 2026 student leaders, encouraging them to embrace leadership, teamwork, and service as they develop skills to positively impact their community.
• Southern Rural Water celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 while linking people, culture, nature, and sustainable regional tourism
  World Tourism Day 2025 highlights water’s role in southern Victoria, connecting people, culture, recreation, agriculture, and sustainable tourism while supporting communities, ecosystems, and Traditional Owner cultural heritage.
• Eat Drink Play Gippsland celebrates local flavours, award-winning cheeses, and culinary creations from passionate regional makers
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland showcases top restaurants, award-winning cheeses, and artisanal delights. From snacks to gourmet dishes, the festival celebrates local flavours and passionate makers, offering something delicious for every palate.
• East Gippsland Shire backs $15M Bairnsdale Airport upgrade to boost emergency response and healthcare services regionally
  East Gippsland Shire Council has backed a $15 million Bairnsdale Airport upgrade, extending the runway to boost emergency response, healthcare services, and regional aviation, supported by government funding and health agencies.
• Baw Baw Council endorses key 2026 advocacy priorities, including Weebar Road roundabout, Rokeby-Noojee Trail, sports infrastructure and regional investment
  Baw Baw Shire Council has endorsed its 2026 advocacy priorities, including Weebar Road roundabout, Rokeby-Noojee Trail, Trafalgar oval, intersection upgrades, sporting infrastructure, business attraction, and peri‑urban recognition.
• Melina Bath says Indigenous burning and broad-scale fuel reduction are vital for proactive bushfire prevention
  Victoria’s fire season begins amid total bans, with experts warning mismanaged forests and inadequate fuel reduction under Labor leave communities exposed to devastating megafires.
• Darren Chester supports Tribunal decision to defend veterans' right, opposing Albanese government plan limiting Acts of Gallantry review
  The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal will defend veterans' rights at a Senate inquiry, opposing the Albanese government's plan to impose a 20-year limit on reviewing acts of gallantry.
• Darren Chester applauds Metung Primary Footy Colours Day, showcasing student enthusiasm and schools' vital role in regional life
  Darren Chester joined Tim Bull at Metung Primary Footy Colours Day, praising student enthusiasm, community spirit, and schools' vital role in fostering connections, participation, and regional community life through fun events
• Bass Coast Shire Council sets four-year strategic direction with refreshed Community Vision, Council Plan, and Annual Action Plan
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its refreshed Community Vision 2045, Council Plan 2025-2029, and Annual Action Plan, setting a community-shaped strategic direction celebrating the region’s diverse landscapes and values.
• Wellington Shire Council offers free green waste disposal to help residents reduce fire hazards this season
  Wellington Shire Council is urging property owners, particularly in coastal communities, to prepare for the fire danger period by taking advantage of its Fire Ready No-Fee Green Waste Disposal program.
• Gippsland Water promotes hydration and sustainability with popular portable drinking fountains at Traralgon International tennis tournament
  Gippsland Water’s portable drinking fountains at the Traralgon International help players and spectators stay hydrated, promote tap water, support community events, and reduce single-use plastic for environmental sustainability.
• Tim Bull claims Environment Minister misled contractors, as DEECA contracts may reduce existing external panel work
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull accused the Allan Labor Government of cutting fire mitigation work for contractors, misleading them on funding, and failing to maintain promised work volumes across East Gippsland.
• Over 350 attended Youth Agritech Expo, experiencing hands-on innovation and future opportunities in modern farming industry
  More than 350 people joined East Gippsland's Youth Agritech Expo, where students explored hands-on agricultural innovations, from drones to driverless tractors, sparking fresh excitement about farming's high-tech, diverse, and innovative future.
• South Gippsland Council partners with Volunteering Gippsland to support and deliver community training across Gippsland libraries and hubs
  Council, with Volunteering Gippsland and regional councils, offers free community training at Korumburra Library, covering volunteer management, strategic planning, and partnership building across Gippsland.
• Latrobe Valley still waiting for Commonwealth Games Legacy Housing, four years after Labor promise
  Regional Victorians miss hosting Commonwealth Games athletes as promised Morwell legacy housing remains unbuilt. Nationals MPs Martin Cameron and Melina Bath criticize Allan Labor government’s broken promises amid worsening public housing crisis.
• Melina Bath urges East Gippsland cricket clubs, schools and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants by 27 March 2026
  Melina Bath encourages regional cricket clubs, schools, and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants supporting facility upgrades and inclusive participation opportunities. Applications close 27 March 2026.
• East Gippsland hosts first Creative Summit, celebrating local artists, culture, community and future creativity on 28 March 2026
  East Gippsland’s first Creative Summit on 28 March brings artists, performers, and creatives together to celebrate talent, connect communities, showcase projects, and shape the region’s cultural future through IMMERSIVE programs.
• Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to join Biodiversity Blitz and help shape first nature plan from 1-30 September 2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council invites residents to celebrate Biodiversity Month by joining the Biodiversity Blitz, recording local species, attending walk-and-talk events, and contributing ideas to shape the region's first Nature Plan.
• Latrobe City Council endorses submissions on Hazelwood and Yallourn declared mine rehabilitation plans
  Latrobe City Council has endorsed submissions on Hazelwood and Yallourn mine rehabilitation plans, promoting sustainable restoration, strong coordination, environmental accountability, community benefits, and long-term regional resilience.
• Latrobe City Council endorses community engagement on draft financial, asset, and road management plans
  Council endorsed community engagement on key draft plans, including the Financial, Asset, and Road Management Plans, ensuring alignment with the Community Vision, Council Plan, and long-term strategic planning framework.
• Baw Baw Shire Council seeks community feedback on draft 10-year open space strategy for future planning
  Baw Baw Shire Council invites feedback on its draft Open Space Strategy, shaping a 10-year plan to guide investment, protect natural spaces, and enhance community wellbeing. Consultation closes Friday 3 October 2025.
• Danny O’Brien said the state’s fuel price app is ineffective, though price transparency tools like Servo Saver can help strained household budgets
  Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien urges state and federal governments to secure regional fuel supply, warning rising costs, panic-buying, and supply restrictions threaten farmers, transport, essential services, and local households.
• South Gippsland Eat, Drink Play Festival celebrates local food, drinks, live music, kids' activities, and outdoor fun and other updates
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns this spring at Leongatha Railway Precinct, showcasing regional food, drink, and live music. With daytime tastings, evening entertainment, and kids' activities, it's a family-friendly celebration of Gippsland.
• Wellington Early Years Expo returns, offering free family fun, services and play-based activities for young children on 30 April 2026
  The 2026 Wellington Early Years Expo returns to the Gippsland Regional Sports Complex in Sale on Thursday 30 April inviting families to enjoy an afternoon of learning and connection for children aged 0–5 years.
• Melina Bath condemns Allan government, warns emergency services tax delay is political, not scrapped
  Melina Bath condemned the Allan Government for misleading regional Victorians, warning the emergency services tax delay is political, not scrapped, and calling for its full abolition to protect farmers and communities.
• East Gippsland Council streamlines procurement, connecting suppliers through VendorPanel online
  East Gippsland Council now manages major procurement through VendorPanel, giving local, regional, and national suppliers fair, simple access to opportunities while supporting transparency, competition, and local economic growth.
• Melina Bath has raised concerns in Parliament about Emerald Secondary College closures and urged fire upgrades
  Melina Bath raises concerns over Emerald Secondary College closures during high fire danger days, urging Allan government to improve fire resilience and keep schools safely open, reducing learning disruption for students.
• Melina Bath praises Gippsland seafood excellence at Victorian Industry Awards, highlighting quality and sustainability
  Melina Bath praised Gippsland seafood businesses in state parliament, highlighting quality, sustainability, local jobs, and regional economic contribution at the 2026 Victorian Industry Seafood Awards.
• Melina Bath praises Gippsland seafood excellence at Victorian Industry Awards, highlighting quality and sustainability
  Melina Bath praised Gippsland seafood businesses in state parliament, highlighting quality, sustainability, local jobs, and regional economic contribution at the 2026 Victorian Industry Seafood Awards.
• Bass Coast Shire Council adopts 2024 - 2025 Annual Report, showcasing community achievements and future strategic direction
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its 2024 - 2025 Annual Report, celebrating achievements, community progress, and the completion of the 2021 - 2025 Council Plan while setting a new strategic direction for 2025-2029.
• Bass Coast Council releases first Q1 2025-26 Performance Report, highlighting progress, finances, and key Council Plan achievements
  Bass Coast Shire Council’s first Q1 2025-26 Performance Report highlights strong progress on the Council Plan, financial surplus, capital projects, strategic documents, and community initiatives, reflecting transparency and good governance.
• West Gippsland CMA’s annual report showcases environmental achievements from mountain headwaters to coastal waters
  West Gippsland CMA’s Annual Report highlights major 2024–25 achievements restoring rivers, wetlands and habitats, supporting communities, protecting wildlife, and strengthening catchment health from mountain headwaters to the coast.
• Peri Urban Councils urge state government to invest in infrastructure and support housing growth across regions
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria is urging government investment in infrastructure after a new report recommended 40% of new homes be built in regional Australia, highlighting housing demand, high costs, and infrastructure pressures.
• East Gippsland Youth Ambassadors lead with vision, proving young voices shape community and lasting impact
  Eight months in, East Gippsland Youth Ambassadors are shaping the region's future, addressing key issues, leading projects, and gaining leadership skills that build confidence, community engagement, and long-term positive impact.
• Gippsland Water shares practical water-saving tips, family activities, sign-up at Wellington Sustainability Festival on 14 March 2026
  Gippsland Water will share water-saving tips, family activities, and Sounding Board sign-ups at the Wellington Sustainability Festival, Saturday 14 March, at Nakunbalook Environmental and Cultural Education Centre, Sale
• Gippsland's diverse landscapes and bold winemakers offering flavours as varied and unforgettable as the region itself
  From wild coastlines to rugged ranges, Gippsland delivers bold landscapes and diverse wines. At Eat Drink Play Gippsland, explore unique flavours, passionate winemakers, and stories bottled across this Switzerland-sized wine region.
• Gippsland Water’s mobile trailer supports community events while promoting health, sustainability and reducing single-use plastic
  Gippsland Water’s mobile water trailer supports community events, providing free drinking water, promoting healthy choices, reducing single-use plastics, and enhancing public and environmental health across the region in 2026.
• Darren Chester urges more fuel reduction to protect Victorian communities from bushfires
  Darren Chester urged increased fuel reduction on Victorian public land, warning unmanaged forests worsen bushfires, and criticised the native timber industry shutdown while praising volunteers and community resilience.
• East Gippsland Mayor Jodie Ashworth urges vigilance, community support and preparedness during recent extreme heat and bushfire risks
  East Gippsland Mayor acknowledges recent extreme heat, commends community responses, urges vigilance, bushfire preparedness, checking on vulnerable people, accessing support services, and using Vic Emergency app and Emergency Dashboard.
• East Gippslander John Mulligan, 94, launches 'Our Mismanaged Forests', sharing lifetime environmental knowledge and practical forest management insights
  East Gippslander John Mulligan, 94, launches Our Mismanaged Forests, sharing lifetime bush experience and advocating practical forest management, fuel reduction, and Indigenous fire practices to improve safety and environmental outcomes.
• Martin Cameron urges Labor government funding commitment on Latrobe Valley mental health unit urgently needing expansion
  The Nationals’ Martin Cameron urges Allan Labor Government to urgently expand Latrobe Regional Health’s mental health unit, citing critically limited beds and growing demand for timely care in Gippsland.
• Martin Cameron says community safety has declined under Labor amid rising crime and 1500 Victoria Police vacancies
  Nationals and Liberals pledge 3,000 extra Victoria Police officers and restored station hours under Safer Communities Plan, addressing regional crime concerns, vacancies, and policing shortages across Latrobe Valley.
• Reduction burn scheduled at Jepson Court Mirboo North on Friday 12 December 2025
  A planned fuel reduction burn will occur at Jepson Court, Mirboo North on 12 December 2025; residents should avoid the area, take care with smoke, and follow VicEmergency updates.
• West Gippsland CMA champions healthy waterways, culture, community, and sustainability across the catchment
  West Gippsland CMA celebrates World Rivers Day by highlighting river health, cultural significance, and restoration efforts. Caring for 40,000km of waterways, they partner with communities to ensure resilient, thriving rivers.
• CFA faces critical staffing shortages in Gippsland as Labor government fails to act before dangerous fire season
  A new report reveals serious CFA staffing shortages in Gippsland, with vacancies, fatigue, and leadership gaps risking slower responses this dangerous fire season. Labor must act urgently.
• Gippsland Water launches Community Emergency Support Team to assist and support locals during emergencies
  Gippsland Water has launched a Community Emergency Support Team to provide safe water, information, and local assistance during bushfires, floods, storms, and power outages, working alongside emergency services and communities.
• Auditor-General report criticises Victoria’s timber shutdown, citing job losses, insecure work and failed transition planning
  Auditor-General report criticises Victoria’s native timber shutdown, highlighting failed transition, job insecurity, and ongoing regional economic harm under the Allan government’s policy.