Bushfire water tanks for key communities
| 29 March 2017 (amended: 16 December 2016) |
Following the Pinery fire, Council has declared support for the “Kick in for Pinery” fundraiser to install emergency water tanks within the Council area.
Council will negotiate and facilitate further funding from the State Management Relief Fund and Natural Disaster Resilience Program to finalise the project.
Water was cited as an issue during the Pinery Fire by members of the Pinery Community Centre. As a result, the Adelaide Plains Football League, SACFL, SANFL, AFL and associated clubs collaborated to hold the fundraiser “Kick in for Pinery” and raise funds towards infrastructure for water collection to secure the region for any future bushfire disasters.
Funds raised will be used to provide six 250 kilolitre water tanks within Wakefield Regional and Adelaide Plains Council districts, three of which will be in the Wakefield region.
The tanks and their associated fittings have a total cost of $25,000 each, and tank locations are anticipated to be within Pinery, Lochiel and Owen. Local community groups have been consulted and are supportive of the concept. Further community consultation will be undertaken by council staff to assist with the most suitable location for the tanks within each of the townships.
Wakefield Regional Council CEO Jason Kuchel said “Council have agreed to take responsibility for the annual maintenance, insurance, water & service fees against the tanks and associated infrastructure.”
“During future bush firefighting operations, the additional tanks will increase water resources and reduce travelling and filling times for firetrucks – both critical elements during emergency conditions.”
Mayor Rodney Reid in highlighting the community’s appreciation said “This initiative is of huge benefit to the wider region in regards to natural disaster preparedness. Thank you to the Adelaide Plains Football League and Pioneer Tanks for their support to further enhance bushfire resilience within our regions.”
The tanks are anticipated to be installed in the second quarter of 2017.