Residents urged to prepare property for bushfire season with free green waste drop-off
Residents are being urged to prepare their properties for the upcoming bushfire season with Council’s free Green Waste Disposal program between 1 December - 31 December 2022.
From 5 December, Ararat Rural City Council officers will start conducting private property inspections for bushfire hazard reduction compliance, starting in Elmhurst and working their way across the municipality. These annual inspections are intended to promote public safety and assist residents in preparing for the fire danger period.
To assist residents with property clean up, Council is offering free green waste disposal at transfer stations in Ararat, Elmhurst, Lake Bolac, Moyston, Pomonal, Tatyoon, Streatham and Willaura during December.
Ararat Rural City Mayor Jo Armstrong encourages residents to take advantage of Council’s free green waste initiative over the coming weeks.
“Spring marks a high growth period for vegetation which has been further intensified by recent rain events,” Cr Armstrong said.
“Council strongly encourages residents to plan a clean up to ensure their properties are bushfire ready.
“This free green waste disposal initiative is a great opportunity for residents to identify risks and reduce the spread of fire by tidying up their property of long grass and other flammable plant material.
“Council officers will work in partnership with the community to inspect their properties and help minimise risk. Planning and preparing for the fire season is very much a shared responsibility among Council, Forest Fire Management Victoria, local authorities, and residents.”
The Free Green Waste Disposal Program offers residents the opportunity to dispose of up to 2 cubic metres of green waste at Council’s Transfer Stations in Ararat, Elmhurst, Lake Bolac, Moyston, Pomonal, Tatyoon, Streatham and Willaura between 1 December to 31 December 2022. Vouchers will not be required this year, simply share proof of ID with address to staff at the Transfer Station.
Green waste taken to the Transfer Station must be separate from other rubbish/ waste. Green waste may include prunings, small branches, and leaves. Please note drop-offs exceeding two cubic metres of green waste or any other items will be charged regular disposal rates.
Transfer Station hours can be found on Council’s website www.ararat.vic.gov.au . If you have any further questions, contact Emergency Management Coordinator Kristi Sullivan on (03) 5355 0200.