Council has endorsed an updated fire strategy that aims to improve risk mitigation procedures, formalise its responsibilities, and strengthen collaboration with other key agencies.
As a primary landholder of bushland that borders urban areas, Council has a significant responsibility for the management of risk in these areas and the protection of property.
An important consideration in fire management for the Cairns region is the close proximity and interface of hillslopes, vegetation and urban areas.
With urban development continuing to encroach on vegetated and hillslope areas, the need to implement viable risk mitigation measures is increasingly important.
The strategy outlines Council's operational requirements, provides clarity on agency responsibilities and identifies measures to reduce fire risks, including the proper use of hazard reduction burns and fuel reduction.
It also addresses the use of other fire mitigation measures, such as revegetation to support canopy thickening to suppress grass regrowth.
Other aims of the strategy include reducing the risk of wildfires, conservation of natural habitats, retaining the amenity of the region, and reducing arson and its potential damages.
Priority sites will be subject to annual review to ensure plans, actions, and mitigation measures remain up-to-date.
