CFA is calling on Victorians to Get Fire Ready ahead of what is predicted to be a high-risk fire season, with residents across the west invited to attend local preparedness events.
As part of CFA's Get Fire Ready initiative, more than 70 brigades across CFA's West Region will take part in events throughout October and November, giving landowners practical advice to help protect their homes, families and properties.
Among those taking part are brigades from communities that know all too well the impact of bushfire.
Natimuk, Skipton, Dimboola, Kadnook, Goroke, Moyston, Pomonal, Halls Gap, Lexton and Mount Mercer are among the recently fire-affected brigades participating in the statewide initiative.
CFA West Region Deputy Chief Officer, Scott Turner, said the strong involvement of recently fire-affected brigades reinforced the importance of preparing before the fire season.
"Communities across western Victoria have seen firsthand in recent times how quickly fire can develop and the impact it can have," Scott said.
"We strongly encourage people from all across our region to attend their nearest Get Fire Ready event.
"Our brigades can assist with how best to prepare your property, knowing when to leave and where you'll go if a fire breaks out and setting a watch zone in the VicEmergency app."
For residents of Carranballac, Streatham and Skipton, that experience is particularly recent.
The Streatham–Yalla-Y-Poora fire, which occurred amid catastrophic fire conditions on 9 January 2026, destroyed multiple homes, burned approximately 20,000 hectares and resulted in significant livestock losses.
Westmere Group Officer Pat Millear said the fire reinforced the importance of making decisions early and preparing well before a high-risk day.
"Preparation doesn't guarantee a house will survive, but it gives our crews a much better chance to defend it," Pat said.
"A cleared property, accessible driveways and knowing residents have evacuated give our crews valuable assistance and reassurance during a bushfire response.
"Get Fire Ready is a chance for people to sit down with us, look at a map of their own area and ask questions like, 'What does my risk actually look like, and what can I do about it before summer?'"
Skipton will hold a Get Fire Ready event on 8 November at the Skipton Spring Festival.
To find out when your nearest brigade is taking part, visit cfa.vic.gov.au/getfireready.
