Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has defended Rural Fire Service volunteers and farmers by tabling three burning questions in Parliament this week.
Mr Bennett said the start of the bushfire season was brutal for our RFS volunteers and producers who lost so much.
“It’s vital we learn lessons from these disasters,” he said.
“We need to ensure the most efficient and timely responses are taken.
“The recent Lowmead and Kinkuna fires were terrifying for residents and after speaking with several RFS volunteers, we know improvements can be made across preparation, response, and recovery.”
Mr Bennett tabled a Question on Notice for the Minister for Fire and Emergency Services this morning.
With reference to the recent devastating bushfires across the Burnett and the feedback around delays to backburning activities, can the minister outline (a) what the policy position is around incident control management and permissions to backburn when a bushfire becomes too intense to attack directly? (b) what is preventing Queensland Rural Fire Service First Officers from making that urgent and timely decision and final call to manage all activities on the fire ground?
The Burnett MP will table two further questions to Minister Ryan this week around the use of machinery and private firefighting equipment as well as the replenishment of potable and non-potable water taken from properties to assist in firefighting activities.
“These issues should be above politics,” said Mr Bennett.
“It’s essential we get the management, response, and recovery right when it comes to bushfires.
“It’s about saving lives and communities.”
The minister has 30 days to respond to Mr Bennett’s Questions on Notice.
ENDS.
28/11/2023