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This article was published on Tuesday, 7 May, 2024. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Council advises Greater Shepparton community of planned cultural burn

Posted on Tuesday 7th of May, 2024,

Greater Shepparton City Council wishes to advise the community of a planned cultural burn in a small section of open grassland within Cussen Park, Tatura from anytime between Wednesday 8 May and Wednesday 22 May 2024, weather permitting.

In Summary

  • Planned cultural burn in Cussen Park, Tatura from 8 to 22 May 2024, weather permitting.
  • Conducted by Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation cultural fire practitioners.
  • Aims to protect environment, native animal habitat, improve soil health, control weeds, and continue ancient cultural practice.
  • Smoke may be visible; burn dates subject to weather conditions and safety checks.

The Traditional Owner–led burn will be conducted by Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation cultural fire practitioners, who have extensive experience in carrying out this type of burn.

Cultural burns are ‘cool burns’ which burn slower and with less intensity than other burns. The burn aims to protect the natural environment by reducing fuel load, protect native animal habitat, improve soil health, control weeds and encourage germination of indigenous seed.

The burn also enables Traditional Owners to heal Country and allows the ancient cultural practice to continue. The mosaic-style pattern of burning allows native animals the ability to seek refuge, and protects the tree canopy and larger vegetation.

Council’s Manager Environment, Sharon Terry, said supporting Indigenous-led fire practices had many benefits.

“This isn’t just about the positive environmental impact, it is also helps us understand the deep cultural and spiritual connections Indigenous communities have with the land,” she said

“As a community we should promote the philosophy and understanding of Aboriginal fire practice because it is a really important pathway for sustainable fire management.”

The Cussen Park cultural burn, located off Ross Street in Tatura, will be ignited at any time within the next two weeks on days when conditions are suitable. Smoke may be visible from the Tatura township and properties neighbouring the park.

Weather conditions and fuel moisture levels at the burn site will be monitored and safety checks will be carried out in preparation for the burn. If conditions are not appropriate, the burn may be postponed.

For more information on cultural burning, please visit www.culturalburning.org.au.

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