With the region beginning to dry out following an extended wet season, Townsville City Council will commence its first hazard reduction burns for the year tomorrow.
The controlled burn on Mount Stuart will be jointly undertaken with Defence from Wednesday May 6 and is expected to take up to two days to complete.
Mayor Nick Dametto said Council carefully planned and carried out hazard reduction burns each year to help reduce the risk of bushfires across the city.
"Emergency management is a year-round responsibility, and as we move out of cyclone season, our focus now shifts to bushfire preparedness," Cr Dametto said.
"Given the amount of rainfall we experienced throughout the wet season, there's a significant build-up of vegetation across the region.
"Dry, excess vegetation is a serious risk, particularly in rural areas, which is why early, planned burns are essential before it dries out further and becomes a serious fire risk.
"This is the first of a number of planned burns over the coming months, and we thank residents for their patience and understanding while this important work is carried out."
Divisional Councillor Brady Ellis said the Mount Stuart burn would be conducted in partnership with contractors working on Department of Defence land.
"Council will be undertaking a burn on one side of Mount Stuart Road, covering approximately 62 hectares, while the Defence contractor will conduct a simultaneous burn on Defence land," Cr Ellis said.
"It's a great opportunity for collaboration, allowing everyone involved to share knowledge and ensure best-practice outcomes, while keeping our community safe.
"The burn is expected to take two days, and Mount Stuart Road will be closed from Wednesday May 6 through to Friday.
"We encourage residents, particularly those with medical conditions that may be affected by smoke, to take appropriate precautions if smoky conditions are experienced.
"If you're in closer proximity in suburbs like Wulguru and Stuart it can also be a good idea to bring your clothes inside to dry instead of using the clothes line to avoid any ash."
Council's hazard reduction burn plan is available online, noting that burn dates are indicative only and subject to change due to factors such as weather conditions and fuel loads.
Hazard reduction burns are undertaken at times of year when conditions support cooler burns and minimise community impact. Traffic control and signage will be in place in areas where smoke may affect visibility.
