DELWP will decrease planned burns from 52,174 hectares to 52,094 hectares from 2015/2016 to 2016/2017, according to the Fire Operations Plan.

DELWP will then increase planned burn offs by 565 hectares from 2016/2017 to 2017/2018.

Over the next three years 39 new burns will be conducted in the Loddon Mallee Region.

The Loddon Mallee region will see the third highest rate of planned burns in the state, with Gippsland and Hume the first and second highest respectively.

Bendigo will see a planned burn on Edwards Road, Maiden Gully and Derwent Gully Road, Long Gully before the end of this financial year.

Burns are planned for six areas along Bob Street, White Hills.

DELWP Acting Chief Fire Officer Gil Marshall said every year DELWP reviewed its planned burning program on public land and then consults the community before releasing a new FOP.

“The FOP sets out where and when planned burning and other works will take place to reduce bushfire risk over the next three years,” Mr Marshall said.

“The Fire Operations Plan is shaped by conversations with local communities, stakeholders and partner agencies to make sure it remains focused on reducing bushfire risk for Victorian communities and the environment.”

“When and where we do planned burning is guided by our understanding of bushfire risk, informed by local knowledge and bushfire modelling. 

“Please have a look at the Fire Operations Plan and tell us what you think of what is planned in your area.”

The FOP is reviewed and updated yearly so that it includes the most up to date local information and potential impacts on communities and stakeholders.

Victorians can provide input and feedback on the Fire Operation Plan at any time by talking to a Fire Management Officer at their local DELWP or Parks Victoria office or by phoning the DELWP Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

In addition to planned burning, approx. 15,000 hectares of non-burn fuel treatments are also identified in the fire operations plan across the state.