Hazard reduction burn scheduled for Mt Louisa
Date published: 16 July 2021
Townsville City Council will partner with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services to undertake a bushfire hazard reduction burn on Mt Louisa on Tuesday (20 July).
The controlled burn will take place away from houses on the Kirwan side of Mt Louisa and aims to burn off approximately 30 hectares of hazardous growth, reducing the spread and impacts of bushfires in the area.
Community Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability Committee chairperson Maurie Soars said it was important for Council to work with various government departments to conduct hazard reduction burns around the region, reducing the likelihood of serious bushfires throughout the season.
“The wet season dragged out a little longer than usual this year, and while we’re thankful for the extra rain, it also gives the vegetation a chance to get out of control and, as it dries out, becomes the perfect fuel for a bushfire,” Cr Soars said.
“It’s important residents across Townsville are aware Council, in partnership with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, is undertaking these hazard burns to keep our community safe.
“It’s always great to partner with departments like the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and we appreciate the experience and expertise they bring with them.”
The burn is expected to take the majority of Tuesday and will include the closure of the Mt Louisa walking trails for public safety.
“We’re hoping to have the burn over and done with by late afternoon and the much-loved walking tracks opened up again for the public’s use,” Cr Soars said.
Cr Soars said whilst the burns could result in some minor inconvenience for locals, they were a necessary part of living in the dry tropics.
“We thank everyone for their cooperation. Residents with medical conditions that may be affected by smoke from grass fires are encouraged to take precautions in case smoky conditions affect them during this time,” he said.
A full list of Council’s scheduled hazard reduction burns can be found at Works & Road Closures.
