Planned Fire Mitigation Across Banana Shire

Published on 24 September 2026

Planned fire mitigation across Banana Shire townships

Banana Shire Council advises residents that planned fire mitigation will be undertaken within and around selected locations across the Shire as part of Council’s ongoing bushfire risk-reduction program.

Creation of Firebreaks and Controlled burns are designed to reduce accumulated vegetation and other combustible material, establish safer buffer areas and help protect residents, homes, essential infrastructure and community facilities from the threat of bushfire.

Burning activities will only proceed when appropriate permits and approvals have been issued by the Queensland Fire Service (fire bans are currently in place), and weather, wind and ground conditions are considered suitable. Where controlled burns are not appropriate for a site, firebreaks will be constructed using machinery and water trucks. Proposed burns may be postponed or rescheduled at short notice if conditions are unfavourable.

While every reasonable effort will be made to manage dust and smoke, residents may notice dust, smoke, ash or a burning smell during and after the works. Smoke may remain in the area for several days, depending on wind direction, temperature and atmospheric conditions.

Council acknowledges that dust and smoke from planned works can cause health concerns and may affect people differently. People who may be particularly sensitive to dust and smoke include children, older residents, pregnant people and those with asthma, respiratory conditions or cardiovascular disease.

Residents who are sensitive to dust and smoke are encouraged to:

• Keep doors and windows closed while smoke is present
• Use air conditioning on recirculation mode, where available
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity
• Keep prescribed medication, including asthma relievers, readily available
• Follow their personal asthma or health-management plan
• Bring washing indoors and keep pets in a protected area
• Seek medical advice if symptoms develop or worsen

Residents may notice increased dust in the area during fire break creation works. Those who are sensitive to dust may wish to take appropriate precautions while works are underway.

Dust and smoke may also reduce visibility on local roads. Motorists are asked to slow down, switch on their headlights and drive according to the conditions.

Council understands that fire mitigation measures can cause concern, particularly when smoke is visible near homes and townships. These works form part of a broader, planned approach to reducing bushfire fuel loads and improving community safety before higher-risk fire weather occurs.

Burn areas will be monitored during the works and checked afterward in accordance with the conditions applying to each burn. Council will continue to work with relevant fire authorities and other agencies to minimise any risk.

Advance notifications will be provided through Council’s website and official communication channels wherever practicable. Residents should be aware that dates and times may change due to weather conditions, fire restrictions or operational requirements.

Residents concerned about smoke in their area can also check the Queensland Fire Department’s current warnings, incidents and hazard-reduction burn notifications.

For further information about Council’s fire mitigation program, please contact Banana Shire Council on (07) 4992 9500 or visit banana.qld.gov.au