Mayor’s fire message

By Cr Graeme Legge, Cardinia Shire Mayor
A YEAR has passed since the horrific bushfires of Black Saturday and while the rebuilding effort continues around Victoria, it is timely to remember the great contribution made by our CFA volunteers.
It was the wonderful CFA and a host of other groups together with organised local residents who fought the Bunyip State Park bushfire and contained losses to one house with no serious injuries or casualities.
Council has worked harder than ever to prepare for this summer bushfire season.
Together with the CFA and other emergency services, we have strived to ensure our shire is as safe as possible. Of course, fire safety is everybody’s responsibility and we all must play our part.
With the fire danger period still upon us, let’s all resolve to be extra careful and guarded so that we cause no fire to start.
It’s a ‘community state of mind’ to be so powerful and alert that many a possibility is simply thwarted. We can all ‘think ahead’ as to possibilities and be constantly alert.
It’s important that we take care of ourselves, our families and our neighbours during hot weather.
Extremely high temperatures over prolonged periods are a major hazard for everyone. It is important that we don’t underestimate the effect of rising temperatures and ensure our loved ones are managing in the heat.
I urge you all to take steps to prepare your home for rising temperatures and help friends and family to do the same.