By Dongyun Kwon
Leading up to the hot and dry season, Yarra Ranges Council confirmed the designation of bushfire shelter options within the municipality during the latest meeting on Tuesday 26 November.
Nineteen sites have been audited and are deemed compliant for designation as Neighbourhood Safer Places – Bushfire Places of Last Resort (NSP_BPLR) in Yarra Ranges for the 2024/25 fire danger period.
Moved by Ryrie Ward councillor Fiona McAllister, she said the annual report is always a timely reminder of stepping into the fire season.
“We do live in a fire-prone area, and as we step into summer, it’s a reminder about fire plans in place, in particular, maintenance of private property as well as the maintenance of our community safer places,” Cr McAllister said.
“In this instance, it’s a reminder there are 19 designated community safer places that used to be known as Places of Last Resort.
“We have a fire season where we need to use them and they are ready to go.”
One additional NSP-BPLR site, the Seville Recreational Reserve (First Oval), has been reinstated, being added on top of the 18 sites last year.
Melba Ward councillor Mitch Mazzarella emphasised the importance of the NSP-BPLR as well as personal bushfire preparedness.
“While I only have one NSP located in my ward, it is important for people to know where [NSP-BPLR] are,” he said.
“[I highly encourage] people to have a plan to be safe, be vigilant and check where your NSP is by visiting the council’s website.”
The Ryrie Ward councillor thanked the two organisations which were willing to be part of it for the safety of the community.
“Five of the 19 sites are in Ryrie Ward, and two of those, the [Yarra Valley] Racecourse and [Healesville] RACV club, are again commitment from non-council properties to be there for the community, should it be needed,” Cr McAllister said.
“I’d like to express appreciation to both those entities.”
Three existing Community Fire Refuges are still commissioned by Emergency Management Victoria and will be retained within the municipality.
These buildings are state-owned and managed assets, listed on both CFA and Yarra Ranges Council websites.
NSP_BPLR sites in Lilydale and Mount Evelyn:
Lilydale Recreational Reserve area, Main Street (Maroondah Highway) opposite Hutchinson Street Lilydale
Lilydale Lake Park (Between Car Park, Playground and Rotunda), Swansea Road Lilydale
Yarra Hills Secondary School (Oval), bounded by Old Hereford Road, Mikado Road and Burdap Drive (Reserve access Road) Mount Evelyn
