On behalf of the Opposition I extend my thoughts to those families and individuals affected by yesterday’s fires at Dolphin Sands and near St Helens.
These fires – the first of the season – are the reminder of a long fire season ahead for our professional firefighters and volunteer brigades, and I thank them for their service to the community.
Last week was fire awareness week, and if they haven’t already done so, I urge all Tasmanians to prepare now for the fire season, and not leave it to the Christmas holiday period which will be too late.
It is worthwhile noting that apart from the personal loss, every home destroyed in a fire impacts all Tasmanians by increasing fire insurance costs.
Following recent speculation about the existence of a bushfire “blacklist” of indefensible areas, yesterday’s fires again raise the question about whether individual property owners have the right to be told if their property is regarded as indefensible by the fire service, in order for them to be fully prepared in the event of fire.
Rene Hidding MP Shadow Minister for Police and Emergency Services Liberal Member for Lyons
