To burn or not to burn.....that is the question

If only it were that simple. Some would believe that because I am the Greens Councillor I will not even entertain the thought of burning off - this couldn't be further from the truth.

I certainly do recognise that burning off does create greenhouse emissions, as well as poor quality air for residents in the Dandenongs. However on the other hand we live in one of the highest wild fire prone areas in the world.

My views on this are: prior to the fire season we should be able to burn to get rid of the massive amounts of fire fuel that accumulates throughout the year, even on the smallest of blocks. Directly after the fire season restrictions are lifted we should be able to burn to get rid of the fuel that has accumulated over summer before it gets too wet.

I don't think that we should be able to burn off any other times than those mentioned above. Some people will find this quite unpalatable, there are some who believe we should not be able to burn off at all, I expect that these people have not lived through a bushfire experience and do not realise how important it is to keep your land clear of fire fuel. I will always uphold the right of residents to burn off for fire fuel reduction purposes prior to the fire season.

People who burn off wet and green materials and household rubbish act irresponsibly and create unnecessary pollution locally and globally.

I look forward to the review of the local burning laws, it needs to change, the mix isn't right but I'm sure there is a balance between environment and bush fire safe properties and as part of this I will most certainly be encouraging residents to support the introduction of a regular green waste collection as part of the mix.

If you want a copy of the local law or to make a submission just let me know: s.dunn@yarraranges.vic.gov.au