Dams are empty, there’s plenty of dust around and while there’s some pretty colour on the surface in some parts, there’s not much moisture beneath.

So when the CFA talks about grassland curing maps showing significant differences to this time last year, we should be taking note.

As journalist Chris Pedler wrote, the maps show Victoria is substantially drier than at the same time last year, despite (some) recent spring rain.

CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington says we need to be checking current fire restrictions, weather conditions and council local laws in relation to fire danger periods.

“The effects of an out-of-control fire can be devastating and we want everyone to exercise extreme caution, especially with the fire season beginning early,” he said.

“We’re reminding people to always register their burn-offs so we know what is happening in the area, especially if brigades are being called to fires.

You can see the maps and read more, here 

But on a different note, we had some big news during the week with an announcement the Melbourne Vixens will host a pre-season tournament in Bendigo next March. 

Sport journalist Kieran Iles caught up with Australian Diamonds star Caitlin Thwaites at the announcement.

Thwaites, who signed with the Vixens last month, will play her first games back at Melbourne in a pre-season tournament at Bendigo Stadium. The tournament will involve the Vixens and two other Super Netball clubs.

READ MORE: Vixens eager to engage with Bendigo community

We also have a new councillor in the City of Greater Bendigo, and it seems there will be a challenge for mayor in coming weeks. You can read more about what’s happening with our councillors, here.

Below you will also find a few more links to content you may have missed during the past week.

Hope you’re enjoying one of the many things to do in our great region this weekend.

Nicole

Nicole Ferrie, editor