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The Victorian Government has committed $670,000 to implement bushfire mitigation measures at Haining Farm in Don Valley.
The funding is in addition to an ongoing $50,000 per annum maintenance commitment and will be used to establish a number of bushfire mitigation measures, including: a 20 metre fuel break around the area boundary; an internal track network to make the site easily accessible to emergency response vehicles; additional water points, and; an open woodland buffer.
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Regional Director, Kelly Crosthwaite said the funding gives assurance to adjoining landholders and community in the area that all the necessary precautions are being undertaken to ensure there will be no increase in bushfire risk from the revegetation at Haining Farm.
“Community safety has always been put first, above all objectives, in the redevelopment of Haining Farm. This funding is an assurance to the local community that the Victorian Government has a long-term commitment to the success and safety of Haining Farm.”
Ms Crosthwaite said the redevelopment of Haining Farm was an important component of the Victorian Government’s commitment to establish the Yellingbo Conservation Area to conserve biodiversity, improve water quality, improve public land management across the landscape, and provide a recreation space for generations of Victorians to enjoy.
Following the release of the Haining Farm Concept Plan by DELWP and Parks Victoria in September 2017, Parks Victoria is now underway with works to develop the site.
CFA Chief Executive Officer, Paul Smith said, “CFA is supportive of the bushfire mitigation measures proposed for Haining Farm and welcomes the significant investment from the state government to implement these measures before revegetation is established.
“CFA is pleased that Parks Victoria will ensure that these measures are monitored and maintained for the life of the Farm.”
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Len Cox said, “Council welcomes the State Government investment in Haining Farm to enhance the site for local access, tourism and habitat for the state emblems.”
The funding announcement coincides with the DELWP’s release of the Haining Farm Bushfire Mitigation Measures report, which is supported and endorsed by the CFA and Parks Victoria.
The Haining Farm Bushfire Mitigation Measures report provides a detailed account of the mitigation measures that will be utilised at Haining Farm, and can be accessed here: engage.vic.gov.au/haining-farm
