Region - Powercor has commenced vegetation management works in Ararat and Ararat Rural City towns Moyston, Willaura, Streatham, Pomonal, Lake Bolac and Wickliffe to increase public safety and help minimise supply disruptions.
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The works program, developed in close collaboration with Ararat Rural City Council, will require the pruning of trees as well as the removal of trees identified by council that pose a safety risk.
Powercor's vegetation management policies and practices are developed in accordance with the updated Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations 2010.
Under the updated regulations, trees need to be trimmed back further than in the past and management cycles have increased. The regulations specify different clearance requirements depending on whether areas are rated high or low bushfire risk by the CFA. Ararat and Ararat Rural City towns are rated low bushfire risk.
Powercor is responsible for the cutting and removal works on trees on public land in all towns other than Ararat, and within the boundaries of all private properties, in order to maintain the required clearance space around powerline mains.
Powercor is aware the Ararat Rural City community has strong feelings about vegetation. That is why it has developed the vegetation management plan in collaboration with the Ararat Rural City Council to reduce the impact on the majority of the council's tree assets.
Powercor will carry out vegetation management works over the coming months throughout Ararat Rural City, where trees are currently in contact with, or likely to contact, lines. Work will be conducted in consultation with the council.
Energy Safe Victoria, the government agency responsible for electrical safety issues, ensures electricity companies meet their responsibilities under the code.
Powercor notifies all affected residences and encourages residents concerned to make contact to discuss works. Powercor also encourages appropriate planting of low growing trees near powerlines.
For enquiries, please contact David Pitches, parks and gardens officer, Ararat Rural City Council on 03 5355 0906 or Powercor's Paul Humphrey on 0439017310.