Bushfire Bullies

Today we received our instructions for bushfire prevention from the Council. All households must
* remove all piles of flammable material (branches, grass, wood piles) from the property or store them in spark and ember proof sheds.

* cut all grass and undergrowth to 10cm over entire property

* trees/ bushes should be well cut back from any buildings

*lower branches on significant trees should be cut off to a height of 2m above the ground

* gutters clear of leaves and branches

There are timelines and consequences for this. Failure to comply results in fines and necessary work being carried out by the council and charged to the householder.

This may have implications for us


Check out the palm on the left of the picture. I think that might qualify as close to the house don't you???
'Darling husband, what is going to happen about the palm???' I ask. 'Not to mention the pile of palm branches and rose prunings behind the shed!!!!!????'

Gruff grunts were the reply.

"We'll be fined"

"Bring it on......" I heard him growl.

"What's all this?" asks Baby Angel. "How can they fine us for choosing to let our house burn? Next thing you know we'll all be wearing dog tags and being monitored 'for our own good'."

I explained to her that it was up to the next generation to ensure that this doesn't happen. While I can see the value in clearing up properties which are bushfire risks, I do think the 'nanny state' mentality has gone too far when kids at school have to put on rubber gloves to pick up autumn leaves for leaf printing.

"Well, what can I do about it?" she protested.

"You are the next generation...it all depends on you!"

"Really?.........Oh crap"

I think we may be in trouble!

Stay tuned to see if the palm tree finally gets the chop. (Yes, yes, mother, I can hear you and I know YOUR opinion!!!!)