Science of fire comes to Stawell

The right preparation is the key to any good bushfire management plan, says Dr Chris Weston of the University of Melbourne’s Department of Forest and Ecosystem Science.

“Regional Victoria has been hit first with fires, now with floods. Ecologically, this is fantastic news for forest growth, but will have implications for those living in fire-prone areas,” Dr Weston said.

RiAus, Free Range Science and the Bushfire CRC will present an interactive community evening with a panel of bushfire experts at the Stawell Entertainment Centre on May 11.

“We’ve learned a lot about fire behaviour and how the bush responds to fire but we are only beginning to learn why people make certain decisions when faced with the threat of fire,” Bushfire CRC Communications Manager, David Bruce said.

“The way people behave when faced with a natural disaster is quite complex and this event will show some of the new research that is helping us to live with fire,” he said.

“Preparation and communication are key issues during a bushfire. You can’t rely on someone coming to save you – you need to stay informed about the fire through CFA communication channels and be prepared to act accordingly,” CFA Manager Community Safety Grampians Region, Michael Boatman said.

Free Range Science, funded by the Victorian Government, brings science and scientists out of the lab and into the towns of regional Victoria. The program puts locals in touch with the people who research, design, create and use the science and technology that powers our lives.

Bushfire Science in Stawell

When: Wednesday, 11 May 2011 7:00 - 8.30 pm

Where: Stawell Entertainment Centre, 65 Main Street, Stawell

The event is free but bookings are required at bushfirescience.eventbrite.com

More Information: www.freerangescience.org.au

Media Contact: Sara Brennan 02 9234 3822 or 0420 471 410 sbrennan@apa.net.au

Release date

Thu, 05/05/2011