Snake Valley brigade embraces Road and Rail program

Midlands Wimmera Area Community Safety Manager, Michael Boatman, with the sign. Photo courtesy Ballarat Courier

by Jodie Guest

When CFA introduced the Road and Rail program in 2006, Snake Valley brigade was one of the first to take up the challenge, said Midlands Wimmera Road and Rail program facilitator Tony Brady.

Tony said the brigade identified the importance of roadside burning for community safety and fire prevention, along with environmental benefits arising from the controlled use of fire.

“Victrack, through Landcare Australia, was offering small grants to local organisations to assist them in the preservation and rejuvenation of native grasses and plants, the majority of which are now found on roadsides throughout western Victoria,” he said.

The brigade obtained a grant and used it rehabilitate the Steatham-Carngham Rd.

“The project’s success was dependent on the partnership of several agencies, primarily DSE and the Pyrenees Shire. DSE provided expert advice and direction and the shire augmented the brigade’s work with gorse removal and logistical support.”

Tony said the project involved removal and mulching of pine wildings along several kilometres of roadside, weed management provided by the shire and a systematic burning program introduced by the brigade.

“It is envisaged the continuing actions of the Snake Valley Fire Brigade will assist in the maintenance and proliferation of our native flora and fauna along our roadsides and at the same time provide for safer communities through planned fire prevention works,” Tony said.

On 4 November, a sign was commissioned to recognise the vital contribution the brigade makes to its local environment. The sign also illustrates some of the native plants and fauna that will benefit from the ongoing actions of the brigade and partners.