The Murray River region is home to a vibrant community and diverse ecosystems. Unfortunately, this area also faces a significant and escalating risk of bushfires due to the accumulation of understory fuel in local forests, particularly in Barooga and Cobram. Hazard reduction burns, a proven strategy for managing bushfire risk, have not been conducted here for roughly ten years, despite continued appeals from local residents to the authorities and government bodies.

This prolonged period without fire reduction initiatives has posed a severe threat to both human, environmental and Wildlife safety. The impact of bushfires can be devastating, causing loss of life, destruction of property, and irreversible damage to the environment. It's well-documented that managed burns help control the fuel load, thus reducing the intensity and spread of potential bushfires. Successful examples from other regions clearly demonstrate how these strategies can protect both human communities and natural landscapes.

We urge local authorities and government agencies to resume hazard reduction burns when it is safe to do so and within the Murray River region. By doing so, we can take proactive steps to protect our community and environment.

Join us in our mission to safeguard the Murray River region by signing this petition. Together, we can push authorities to take the necessary actions to mitigate bushfire risks effectively and preserve our beautiful, unique landscape for future generations.