Managing Burgan for Fire Protection in Nillumbik
Fact Sheet
Frequently asked questions
Am I allowed to remove Burgan?
Burgan is a native species. Under a recent amendment to the Nillumbik Planning Scheme you
are now allowed to remove Burgan if you believe your property is at risk of bushfire and you
feel that Burgan is contributing to that risk.
Burgan provides habitat for native animals and provides soil stability. Removing Burgan may
lead to an increase in weeds.
Do I need a permit to remove Burgan?
No you do not require a permit to remove Burgan but you must first check there are no
covenants on your land which protect native flora such as a Section 173 Agreement (these
covenants will be noted on the certificate of title on your land or you can contact Council for
clarification).
Why is Burgan a fire risk?
During very dry periods and on extreme fire weather days Burgan can burn with high intensity.
Any shrubby fuels like Burgan near houses increase the risk of damage to homes during
bushfires due to the proximity of flames to the house and radiant heat.
Do the 10/30 and 10/50 rules apply to the removal of Burgan?
No, these rules do not apply to the removal of Burgan. The amount of Burgan you clear
should be determined by the fire risk it poses to your property.
Does Burgan grow back?
Eradicating Burgan completely is a difficult, long-term and labour intensive undertaking. After
initial removal you will need to carry out follow up treatments for a number of years as Burgan
seeds remain viable in the soil for about two years.
What is the best way to remove Burgan?
The ‘cut and paint’ method for woody weed control is generally the best method for small
scale Burgan removal.
Large scale removal is difficult, time consuming and expensive. Developing a strategic control
program is highly recommended. Herbicides must be used in strict accordance with the
Material Safety Data Sheet and Herbicide Label for each particular product.
Many herbicides are non-selective and will kill any plant they come in contact with. Penalties
apply for the destruction of other native species protected by the Nillumbik Planning Scheme
during the removal of Burgan. (For more information contact Councils Planning Services Unit
or the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure).
For specific advice on developing a strategic control program for Burgan, please contact
Council’s Land Management Team on 9433 3316.
Can I remove Burgan by burning it?
It is generally not possible to burn Burgan whilst it is growing. It will need to be manually cut
back to ground level and the stumps treated with a herbicide. The tops may then be burnt but
residents must adhere to burning off requirements. If you do choose to burn the tops don’t
burn them on a single large pile as you will sterilise the soil in that area which can lead to weed
invasion.
Alternatively stalks can be cut up and placed in your green bin or dropped off at the Recycling
and Recovery Centre at 280 Yan Yean Road, Plenty.
What should I plant in place of Burgan?
Providing competition against Burgan is the best way to ensure a long-term control program.
There are many non-invasive indigenous species that can be planted to reduce the prospect of
Burgan regeneration and spread.
Species selection will vary in every situation and again Council advises that you seek specific
advice before proceeding.
For more information:
Please contact Nillumbik Shire Council on 9433 3316 or visit www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au