Dry summer ahead, Fire Danger Period commencing

Last updated on 14 November 2025

• With summer fast approaching, Macedon Ranges Shire Council is encouraging residents to get a head start on preparing their homes and properties for the months ahead, as the Country Fire Authority (CFA) declares the Fire Danger Period will begin at 1am on Monday 17 November 2025. 

  From this date, fires cannot be lit in the open air without a permit. The Fire Danger Period is scheduled to remain in place until 1 May 2026, unless the CFA advises otherwise. 

  The Bureau of Meteorology’s summer outlook points to a mix of warmer-than-average temperatures and higher-than-usual rainfall across much of eastern Australia. These variable conditions mean residents should be ready for both increased vegetation growth and fast-changing fire risk. 

  Council CEO Bernie O’Sullivan said Council’s fire prevention crews had been busy across the shire for several months. 

  “We’ve been proactive in managing vegetation, slashing long grass along Council roadsides and keeping powerlines clear,” Mr O’Sullivan said. 

  “But fire safety is a shared responsibility. Every property owner can make a real difference by preparing now - cleaning up around their homes, maintaining grass, and having a plan in case of fire.” 

  This summer, Council’s fire prevention activities include: 

  • Roadside slashing: Crews are progressively cutting grass along Council-managed roads from north to south. The Department of Transport and Planning manages slashing on state roads. 

  • Vegetation clearance near powerlines: Council has completed electric line clearance works in declared areas of Gisborne and Kyneton. Powercor manages vegetation in other parts of the shire, and Jemena is responsible for Gisborne South. 

  • Property inspections: Council officers are visiting properties across the shire to identify and manage fire hazards such as overgrown grass, woodpiles and debris. 

  Residents can also take advantage of Council’s free green waste disposal program, using the green waste voucher from the most recent edition of ShireLife to drop off one standard trailer-load of green waste at the Kyneton, Romsey or Woodend Resource Recovery Facilities. 

  Residents are encouraged to review or create a fire plan and use trusted sources for up-to-date information. In the event of an emergency, always follow the directions of VicEmergency, which provides the latest updates, warnings and advice for your area. 

  For more information: 

  Prepare for fire and heat: mrsc.vic.gov.au/fire-heat

  Fire Danger Ratings and restrictions: cfa.vic.gov.au

  Apply for a fire permit: firepermits.vic.gov.au

  Current incidents and alerts: emergency.vic.gov.au

  Resource Recovery Facilities and green waste voucher: mrsc.vic.gov.au/RRF