Locals Reminded To Stay Prepared This Fire Season

As the Mackay and Whitsunday region heads deeper into fire season, residents are being urged to stay alert, take precautions, and understand the crucial role that fire plays across local landscapes, from controlled cane burns to hazard reduction in rural communities.

Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Area Manager, Inspector Andrew Houley said the local fire season typically aligns with the region’s sugar cane industry.

“Our fire season tends to reflect the biggest crop on the coast,” he said.

“It lines up seasonally when things dry out — unlike southern Australia, where fire danger peaks in February. Here, it’s very much winter and spring, and we get dry like we are now.”

Houley said rural and residential landholders could significantly reduce risk through “good housekeeping.”

“For people who live on the edge of vegetation, areas like Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads or Eimeo, keeping your property clean makes a big difference,” he said.

“Cleaning gutters and roofs, trimming overhanging trees, and clearing under the house are all simple but vital steps.”

He added that managing vegetation through “slashing, mowing, or grazing with livestock” can also lower fire fuel loads.

“If people think fire is a tool for them, they can approach their local brigade,” Houley said.

Several local brigades are also looking for new volunteers, particularly Midge Point, Camerons Pocket, and Habana.

“It’s in everyone’s best interest to have a strong local brigade,” Houley said.

“When a well-trained local team is on hand, there’s a lot they can do before other fire appliances arrive. Neighbours helps neighbours – that’s one of our founding principles.”

Houley encouraged residents to visit the Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) website to find information on developing a Bushfire Survival Plan and locating local fire wardens.

“Fire is a really important tool for our landscape,” he said.

“It’s vital for biodiversity, agriculture, and safety, but when it goes wrong, it can be a dreadful foe, so preparation is everything.”

Residents across the Mackay and Whitsunday region are encouraged to take simple, proactive steps to reduce their fire risk:

• Clean gutters and roofs regularly to prevent leaf build-up and ember ignition.
• Trim overhanging branches and remove dry vegetation close to the home.
• Clear under the house or low-set areas where debris can accumulate unnoticed.
• Slash, mow, or graze grassed areas to reduce fuel loads on your property.
• Relocate valuable assets like caravans or boats to open, defendable areas.
• Develop a Bushfire Survival Plan using resources on the Rural Fire Service Queensland website.
• Get to know your local brigade — ask at community hubs or visit the RFSQ website for contact details.
• Consider volunteering with your local rural fire brigade to support your community’s safety.
• Stay informed of local fire warnings and conditions, particularly during dry, windy periods.

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Residents are encouraged to stay prepared this fire season by maintaining properties and supporting local brigades. Photos supplied by Rural Fire Service Queensland.

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