Fire worry: Karin Orpen and Peter Smith are concerned about overgrown grass. Picture: Wayne Hawkins
HOMES along Quarry Road in Upper Ferntree Gully have again been placed in danger with grass on VicTrack-owned land left to grow uncontrollably.
The overgrown grass is a worry for residents, the Upper Ferntree Gully CFA and Knox Council because it is close to areas affected during Black Saturday.
The council has written to VicTrack and asked it to slash the grass by the middle of this month.
Following inquiries from the Weekly, VicTrack spokesman Jason Murray said the area "was a matter of urgency" and the grass was set to be slashed this week.
The CFA has been preparing to burn off in the area if VicTrack does not take action, but Upper Ferntree Gully CFA captain Peter Smith said the fire season may well be over by the time the relevant permissions to make the area safe were obtained.
The area in question is just off Burwood Highway, near Upper Ferntree Gully railway station, and along Quarry Road.
Earlier this month the issue was discussed at a community fire-safety meeting in Upper Ferntree Gully. Mayor Karin Orpen alerted the council to the danger last week.
Mr Smith was worried by the length and dryness of the grass and said residents were getting edgy because they were still haunted by scenes of Black Saturday four years ago.
Mr Murray said VicTrack cleared the land twice a year and the plan was developed in consultation with fire prevention officers from councils, MFB officers and at forums.
Cr Orpen said the council was delighted that VicTrack was dealing with the issue.
"We've been worried about this fire hazard and made our concerns public. News of it being fixed will be welcomed by residents."