Between the bumper vegetation growth of a long wet spring and the upcoming bushfire season, Corangamite Shire’s free domestic green waste disposal is helping residents keep their properties safe.
Mayor Ruth Gstrein said green waste can be dropped off at the Naroghid Landfill and all Shire transfer stations until Sunday 27 November.
“We are offering free green waste disposal at transfer stations and Naroghid Landfill to help our residents clean up before the potential bushfire fuel load dries out in summer,” Cr Gstrein said.
“Our annual free drop-off period aimed at helping people prepare their properties for bushfire season.
“Preparation is the key. Now is the time to reduce fuel loads by managing grass growth, pruning trees and shrubs and cleaning up bark, twigs, leaves and other organic matter around your property.
“The free drop-offs are for residential garden waste only, not for commercial operators.”
Council Manager Environment and Emergency Lyall Bond said acting early would minimise heat stress and the risk of sparks from machinery in the hotter, drier months of summer.
“Getting a good start early on makes it easier to keep on top of things as summer progresses.
“Normally a heaped trailer or ute load of green waste would cost $35.70 to dispose of, so this is a great chance for people to clean-up around their properties for free.
“One overgrown block can pose a hazard to a whole neighbourhood so protect your home, and your neighbours, and clean up now.”
Mr Bond also encouraged residents to have a fire plan and know what to do if there is a fire.
“Now is the best time to understand your fire risk and get prepared, not when a fire starts.
“You can download a helpful guide from .”
The free green waste offer is not available for commercial operators.
Kerbside FOGO bins will be emptied weekly until the end of the year then, revert to fortnightly collections from 1 January.
For transfer station opening days and times .