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Free Greenwaste Disposal Days For Fire Hazard CleanupsLatrobe City residents are being provided with two weekends this year where they can dispose of trailer loads of green waste free of charge at Pine Gro’s green waste collection centres. By Latrobe City - 18th October 2007 - Back to News Latrobe City will waive charges for the disposal of leaves, grass and tree branches at Pine Gro’s green waste collection centres on the weekend of Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 October, and the weekend of Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 November.
Latrobe City’s acting chief executive officer, Michael Edgar, said the free disposal weekends are designed to encourage residents to clean up their properties in time for the summer fire danger season.
"Last year’s horrific fire season highlighted the substantial threat to life and property that fire poses. Ensuing rain mid-year and some recent falls will ensure there is abundant vegetation growth. As we have seen in the past, it only takes a few days of warm weather for that growth to become tinder dry and pose a very real fire threat," Mr Edgar said.
"Council is again offering increased opportunities to dispose of green waste free of charge this year to assist property owners reduce the potential for fire," Mr Edgar said.
Mr Edgar reminded residents that green waste is no longer accepted at council’s transfer stations.
"Whilst most residents now have their own green waste bin, we understand that clearing up in preparation for fire season can mean that the bin becomes full quickly and an alternative means to dispose of the waste is needed. The waiving of fees at the Pine Gro facilities should encourage people to ensure their yards are cleared of all organic waste that could provide fuel for a wildfire over the summer months," Mr Edgar explained.
The Morwell green waste collection centre in Monash Road operates seven days a week, 9am to 5pm. The Moe green waste collection centre at 31 Walhalla Road, and Traralgon green waste collection centre in Rocla Road operates 9am to 5pm on weekends.
Latrobe City’s Municipal Emergency Coordinator, Lance King, said the no-fee weekends are timely, as annual fire hazard inspections will also be carried out around the municipality from early November.
"All properties in urban and rural areas will be inspected to ensure preparations have been undertaken to minimise risk for the fire danger season," Mr King explained.
"Municipal fire prevention officers will be identifying properties that have not been properly prepared for the fire season. Perhaps there is overgrown grass in gardens or paddocks, or there are quantities of combustible material too close to a house.
"Should a property be identified as ‘at risk’, a fire prevention notice will be issued. This is designed to make sure that the property owner takes the necessary steps to protect their property and the safety of themselves and their neighbours," Mr King said.
"Property owners are given two weeks to comply with the notice. If, after this time, the property is still a risk, the municipal fire prevention officers may arrange for the council, the fire brigade or contractors to enter the property and undertake the work at the owner’s expense," Mr King explained.
Mr King added that property owners should also ensure that gutters are cleared of leaves, that trees, shrubs or bushes are not planted too close to the home, and that fire safety equipment is well maintained and close to hand.
"Now is definitely the best time to ensure that all properties are kept in good order for the coming fire season. We can all do our bit to keep the grass cut and ensure that the yard is not full of potential fire hazards," Mr King said.
"It is imperative that all property owners ensure that their homes and land are not at risk from wildfire during the summer months. It is not just your own property you put at risk when you do not adhere to these requirements, but those of your neighbours too," Mr King added.
For further information and advice in relation to general fire prevention and preparation for the fire danger period, contact Latrobe City's Municipal Emergency Coordinator, Lance King, telephone 1300 367 700, or the CFA.
Residents requiring information on fire issues relating to public land such as National and State Parks can contact the Traralgon Office of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, telephone 5172 2160.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com

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