The bushfires experienced across Victoria last summer have highlighted the importance of planning and preparing properties for fire. The location, type and ongoing maintenance of vegetation can play a significant role in reducing the impact of bushfire on homes and rural properties.
Community members are invited to attend a free workshop, Landscaping for Bushfires: Garden Design and Plant Selection, at the Milawa Hall on Saturday 22 August 2026 from 10am-12pm.
The workshop will be presented by Owen Gooding, author of CFA Landscaping for Bushfire: Garden Design and Plant Selection. Recently retired, Owen brings more than 18 years of experience with the CFA, working across land use planning, planned burning, and the management of biodiversity and cultural heritage values in bushfire mitigation.
Hosted by the Milawa Markwood Oxley Landcare Group and Ovens Landcare Network, the event is supported by the Country Fire Authority (CFA), Rural City of Wangaratta, North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.
Local Landcare Support Officer and event organiser Kerrie Warburton said the workshop would provide valuable information for rural landholders and residents living in bushfire-prone areas.
"This is a great opportunity for landholders to better understand plant flammability and the role that vegetation can play in either contributing to or reducing bushfire risk," Ms Warburton said.
"The workshop will explore garden design principles and plant selection strategies that can help reduce fire intensity and improve the protection of homes and properties. There will also be plenty of opportunity for questions and discussion."
The session will include a presentation, facilitated discussion and Q&A session. A light lunch will be provided.
To register, visit https://ovenslandcarenetwork.org.au/events or contact Kerrie Warburton on 0418 427 730.
For those unable to attend, additional landscaping and bushfire preparedness resources are available on the CFA website at https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/how-to-prepare-your-property/landscaping.