Funded through Safer Together; CFA, DEECA and CSIRO aim to measure fire behaviour through different crop types (wheat, barley and canola) at different stages (unharvested, harvested and baled) by undertaking a number of burns under controlled conditions with different weather conditions. Key to the research is being able to collect data which would occur under challenging bushfire weather conditions. This summer, burns will be taking place in the vicinity of Colbinabbin in Canola stubble.
Why are the burns happening?
Through purpose-designed experimental fires the study will allow us to directly observe and measure fire behaviour in cropland fuels.
When are the burns occurring?
The burns are scheduled to take place between December and March 2024. The burns will be in 2 stages:
- Stage 1 will be burning adjoining areas to the experimental plots to create a buffer zone for safety and security. This will be done under mild weather conditions as in typical roadside and stubble burns.
- Stage 2 will be the experimental burns, which will occur on days of elevated fire danger. These burns will only occur after suitable fire breaks have been established around the entire experimental site.
How can I get information during the burn?
Online at Planned Burns Victoria
VicEmergency Hotline: 1800 226 226
VicEmergcency App: on your smart phone
Where are the burns occurring
The burns will be occurring on the south side of Bendigo-Murchison Rd, between the Waranga Channel and Bakers Bridge Rd.
Road Access
Local access will be allowed during burning, however there may be delays if smoke in the area limits visibility.
More information
For more information contact: bushfire.research@cfa.vic.gov.au
There is a public meeting scheduled for: 7th December at the Colbinabbin Town Hall. Members of the research team and operations unit will be there to answer your questions.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of these burns?
- The burns will provide us with extensive data to help us to better understand fire behaviour in crops.
- Through better understanding of fire behaviour we will be able to better predict the impact of fires in croplands.
- With greater knowledge we can develop better strategies and tactics to combat bushfires in cropping country.
How will I know when a burn is about to happen?
The burns will be posted on the Planned Burns Victoria website.
CFA Groups in the area will be notified prior to ignition. If you see smoke in the area and have any concerns, check the VicEmergency Hotline. All research burns will be registered with Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA).
Am I in danger?
No, you are not in danger. Fire breaks around the research plots will contain the experimental fires. Fire agencies will be in attendance and the area will be well prepared before the experimental burning occurs.
- The burns will only proceed if all control measures are in place
- These burns have been carefully planned and follow many previous similar experiments conducted in grasslands
- You may see smoke and ash. These are normal by-products of a burn and should present no risk other than to people with respiratory problems. Refer to last FAQ.
Should I leave on the day?
There is no need to leave the area unless you believe your health may be impacted by smoke.
What should I do on the days that burns occur?
- Please be aware of the likelihood of CFA fire trucks moving around the area during burning operations
- If you have respiratory issues, stay indoors. If you have problems breathing contact: 24 hours NURSE-ON-CALL 1300 606 024
- Because the planned burns are small and in crop stubble, the smoke from each burn is likely to be of short duration, and will then clear
- There will be smoke in the area which might alarm your pets.
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Page last updated: Thursday, 23 November 2023 5:15:20 PM