Nightmare

By Melissa Meehan
CARDINIA Grove resident Katie Burns says she doesn’t sleep on hot nights, fearing that the empty land directly opposite her house will go up in flames.
Ms Burns has made numerous complaints to the Cardinia Shire Council about the vacant land and its long dry grass, but they have all fallen on deaf ears.
“I’ve been given the excuse that they have had to outsource the slashing because they are too busy at the moment,” she said.
“I have been given the deadline of the 22 February but this is not good enough.
“It is the fire season now and that grass poses a threat to many in the estate.”
Ms Burns said she felt as though the council failed to see the risk as a priority.
The grass opposite Ms Burns’ home is waist height and has been growing since she made her first call to the Cardinia Shire Council on 22 December.
After nothing was done she called again on 11 January and two weeks later she called again.
“It just seems like they don’t want to listen, if they are so busy then, why aren’t we seeing clean up crews throughout the shire?” Ms Burns said.
“Right across Pakenham they have the same issues. It needs to be addressed.”
On top of her fears on hot days, Ms Burns said hot nights were also a problem.
“During the night, there are people walking through the estate lighting fireworks,” she said.
“We don’t sleep worried that a spark will set the whole thing alight.
“All it would take is for someone to throw a cigarette out of their window while they are driving past… It’s a real worry.”
Cardinia Shire Council spokesperson Paul Dunlop said that council officers had inspected the relevant site and spoken to the property owner with regard to the issue.
“A Fire Prevention Notice has been served to the property owner and the site will be re–assessed at a later date,” Mr Dunlop said.
“If residents are concerned about long grass in their area they are encouraged to contact Cardinia Shire Council on 1300 787 624 to report the matter.”