Following 45 header fires across harvest season in the far north-west of the state, fire authorities are reminding grain growers to make machinery maintenance and hygiene a priority.
A report conducted by CFA’s District 18 found some of the fires were spanning up to 535 hectares, while in total utilised 737 volunteers, 169 CFA vehicles and 16 aircraft for support.
Victoria produces 31 per cent of Australia’s grain, estimated to be worth $4.4 billion and cereal growers within District 18 contribute a significant portion to that, with harvest season seeing fuel loads of 6 to 10 tonnes per hectare of cereal, legume and lentil crop.
Farmers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the harvest pre season checklist at https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-your-property/farms/harvest-fire-safety
