Town protection shortfall

By Kath Gannaway
THE CFA has said it doesn’t have the resources to include Upper Yarra townships in the 52 townships which have specific Township Protection Plans (TPP) in place for this season.
It has, however, moved to reassure Upper Yarra residents they will not be the poor relative of the 52 townships and areas with TPPs when it comes to the level of service they receive.
The TPPs were brought in as “key improvements” in the State Government’s preparation and response to the 2009/10 fire season last year.
The Dandenong Ranges and Warrandyte are included in the 52 and there was widespread disbelief among Upper Yarra residents when the TPPs were named, that places such as Warburton and East Warburton were not included.
Speaking at a media briefing in October, CFA Acting Operations manager for Region 13, Jason Lawrence, said while the CFA didn’t have the resources to undertake and develop new plans at this point, residents could be assured they would have the majority of services afforded under the TPPs.
“There are a large number of planning meetings going on, training activities, community warnings, and all those that go out to the Upper Yarra communities are no different to the TPPs,” he said.
The CFA is conducting a free bushfire planning and information workshop at Upper Yarra Community House on Tuesday 16 November at 6.30pm. Phone 5967 1776 for details. Bookings are essential.
Yarra Ranges Council is also hosting a Community Safety Day at Lillydale lake from 10am to 3pm on Sunday 14 November with a focus on highlighting fire preparation and safety over summer.