Watch fires, snakes

By Lia Bichel
A NARRE Warren resident claims grass on a neighbouring reserve has become a fire hazard, after heavy rain prevented Casey Council from cutting it.
Catherine Tulloch said the grass on Sweeney Reserve, which backs on to their property, could be a fire hazard or home to snakes.
“It looks terrible, but mostly it’s a danger to families,” she said.
“There could be snakes in the grass. Also, with the heat, it’s a fire hazard. The grass is so long, all you need is someone to light a match and everything will go up in flames.”
Sweeney Reserve covers an area of 43 hectares and comprises a number of sportsgrounds, three football and cricket ovals, three soccer pitches and eight softball diamonds.
City of Casey manager Parks and Reserves Trevor Griffin said the council will cut any areas with tall grass as soon as the grass is dry enough.
“All of the sports grounds have been cut within the last week, as have the vast majority of the surrounds; however, due to the heavy rainfall, there are some areas that could not be cut, including the areas adjacent to the creek which runs through the reserve,” Mr Griffin said.
“Council’s contractor will cut the remaining areas as soon as they are dry enough.”