Toowoomba, Dec. 11– In a joint effort to mitigate wildfire risks, the Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is conducting a hazard reduction burn in the Picnic Point parkland on Toowoomba’s eastern escarpment.
Toowoomba Regional Council Conducts Hazard Reduction Burn at Picnic Point Reserve
The operation, coordinated with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES), aims to reduce the fuel load in a 7.5-hectare stretch of bushland, extending from Table Top Drive north to Stevenson Street.
TRC’s Environmental Health portfolio leader, Cr Tim McMahon, emphasised the importance of this burn within the broader fire mitigation program. Weather conditions earlier in the year and an extended period of extremely dry weather had delayed the planned burn.
With favourable conditions following recent wet weather, the burn is scheduled for today and is subject to wind conditions.
Walking trails to be closed
Residents in the vicinity are being promptly notified, and specific walking trails will be temporarily closed during the operation.
The affected trails include Firetail Walk, Fantail Walk, Picnic Point Bridle Trail/Stevenson Street, and Picnic Point to Table Top Trail.
Other trails around Tobruk Drive may experience smoke but will remain open.
Notice and advisories
Cr McMahon urged residents in bushland or rural areas to take necessary precautions, emphasising the importance of having a bushfire survival plan.
Those with respiratory conditions are advised to be cautious of potential smoke, and residents in surrounding areas are urged to be aware of changing wind conditions.
To ensure minimal disruption, residents are advised to take precautions to prevent smoke from affecting their property, such as closing windows and safeguarding washing.
The collaborative effort between TRC and QFES reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding the community against wildfire risks.
