- Appropriate properties should have a fire break, at least four metres wide
- NT Gov has spent $2M on upgrading firefighting infrastructure
- 2,352 have received free herbicide and equipment loans
The Northern Territory Government has reminded residents that the Top End bushfire season has begun and has offered ways Territorians can create and maintain safe properties.
For relevant properties, the territory government recommends creating and maintaining fire breaks that are at least four metres wide, ensuring safe access for emergency response vehicles and, most importantly, having a survival plan in place.
“With the Top End fire season here, the Territory Government is making sure all landholders are prepared by lending a hand to those that need it most, and working with other landholders to make sure fire loads are reduced to limit the risk to the community,”
Eva Lawler, the Minister for Environment
In April, the ‘Fire Ready’ program was announced, assisting elderly and vulnerable rural landholders to reduce their bushfire risk through the installation of firebreaks and reducing gamba grass fuel loads. 21 properties have so far been a part of the program with a further 20 lined up over the next month.
In addition, the Northern Territory Government has dedicated $2 million towards upgrading firefighting infrastructure with $840,000 going specifically towards six new custom-made fire trucks.
The Gamba Action program has resulted in free herbicide and equipment loans to 2,352 landholders – the highest number on record.
Over 3000 hectares of gamba-infested land has been sprayed by the ‘Gamba Army’ during the past six months.
“The six new fire trucks complement our new Bushfires HQ on Townend Road, which makes sure our volunteers are supported and ready to tackle fires in a safe and effective manner.”
“Our firies and volunteers do a marvellous job on keeping Territorians safe and I thank them for their tireless work.”
Eva Lawler, Minister for Environment
Ms Lawler added there are 350 Bushfire NT Volunteers who will work alongside the Northern Territory Fire and Rescue Services during the upcoming season.
