Residents encouraged to be bushfire ready as risk rises with temperatu

Residents encouraged to be bushfire ready as risk rises with temperatu

Published on 12 September 2025

Rockhampton residents are being urged to prepare their homes and update their Bushfire Survival Plans as Queensland moves into Spring.

The region has already seen bushfire activity over the last fortnight with fires at Mount Archer National Park, and with temperatures beginning to rise, risk is set to increase.

A Bushfire Survival Plan is a written guide created by a household or organisation to prepare for and respond to a bushfire. It should clearly outline key decisions and actions such as when to leave or stay, where to go, what to take, and how to communicate, to help ensure safety during and after a fire.

The plan should be reviewed and practiced regularly before the fire season begins.

Emergency kits should include essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, important documents, and protective clothing, ready to grab at a moment's notice.

Residents are encouraged to take simple steps to reduce risk around the home, including:

• Mowing lawns regularly
• Trimming overhanging branches
• Removing flammable materials from around the home
• Using power tools carefully to avoid sparks that could ignite fires

Bushfire Survival Plan Templates are available from Councils Emergency Dashboard.

Quotes attributable to Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Mayor Tony Williams:

"Living in a region like ours, we know that bushfires are a real threat. It's crucial residents take responsibility for their own preparedness.

"Whether you live in a residential, rural, or semi-rural area, bushfire safety is something we all need to take seriously and plan for.

"Your Bushfire Survival Plan should outline what you and your family will do if a bushfire threatens your area - including when to leave, where to go, and what to take with you.

"Preparation is the most effective form of protection.

"With ever-changing weather conditions, we do not want you to get caught out and potentially lose belongings, property, or a life.

Quotes attributable to Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) Area Manager Matthew Eckhardt:

"While RFSQ continues to monitor conditions very closely and the highly skilled volunteer firefighters are ready to respond, bushfire preparation is a community effort.

"If you are looking to light a fire larger than two metres in any direction, make sure you contact your Local Fire Warden to obtain a Permit to Light Fire.

"Power tools and machinery can spark dangerous fires, so if you are carrying out any work during heightened fire conditions, be aware of the dangers and carry a water supply and firefighting equipment.

"QFD work closely with Queensland Police Service and if our crews notice anything suspicious, details will be passed on to our QPS colleagues.

"We encourage the community to do the same. If you suspect that a fire has been deliberately lit, we urge you to contact Triple Zero (000).

"Over the coming months ensure you stay informed and are aware of current warnings for the area."

For more information and resources on bushfire preparedness, visit the Emergency Dashboard: https://emergency.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/

• Mayor Tony Williams
• Media Releases