This version of the Regional Bushfire Planning Assessment HUME REGION has been prepared for
use with screen reader software. The printed publication contains various maps and design features
that have been necessarily omitted from this version. In other respects this document contains
identical text to that in the PDF version of the document which is available at
www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning .
Regional Bushfire Planning Assessment
HUME REGION
April 2012
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission (VBRC) emphasised the importance of considering
bushfire matters at all stages of the planning process, including through regional settlement planning
and in the Local Planning Policy Framework. The State Planning Policy for Bushfire also identifies that
strategic and settlement planning should assist to strengthen community resilience to bushfire.
The Regional Bushfire Planning Assessment (RBPA) supports this approach and is part of the
Government’s response to Recommendation 38 of the VBRC relating to the development of regional
settlement policy in Victoria.
1.1 What is the RBPA?
The RBPA provides extra information about areas (referred to in this document as ‘identified areas’)
where a range of land use planning matters intersect with a bushfire hazard to influence the level of
risk to life and property from bushfire. This information should be addressed as part of strategic land
use and settlement planning at the regional, municipal and local levels.
The RBPA will inform the Regional Growth Plans currently being prepared by the Department of
Planning and Community Development in conjunction with councils. It provides a basis to initiate
further detailed analysis as part of other planning processes such as settlement planning and
preparing planning scheme amendments.
The RBPA is not a statutory planning provision and does not directly translate into planning schemes.
However, it complements planning scheme provisions such as the Bushfire Management Overlay
(BMO) by providing spatial and qualitative information from a variety of sources which together can
inform considerations about where bushfire should be assessed early in the strategic planning
process.
1.2 What information is contained in the RBPA?
The RBPA provides information on matters which may be relevant to strategic and settlement planning
and focuses on the factors considered particularly important by the VBRC, including:

areas where smaller sized lots (less than 0.4ha) which may be used for residential purposes
are in or close to a bushfire hazard

areas where medium sized lots (between 0.4-4ha) which may be used for residential purposes
are in or close to a bushfire hazard

areas where there is a settlement or urban interface with the bushfire hazard

locations which may have limited access and egress, indicated by a single access road to and
from a settlement in addition to roads which connect a number of settlements in areas with a
bushfire hazard

areas where future strategic directions contained in planning schemes may conflict with the
bushfire hazard

areas where the broader landscape is particularly affected by a bushfire hazard
1

areas identified from local information provided by either the relevant fire authority or the
council that may need to be considered in planning decision making

areas where multiple issues occur in a single area.
This information is shown spatially on maps at a strategic scale. It is supported by a table that gives a
brief explanation for each identified area.
1.3 How is the RBPA different to the BMO?
The BMO is applied to areas where there is potential for bushfire behaviour such as a crown fire,
extreme ember attack and radiant heat. The application of the overlay is based on a technical
evaluation of the bushfire hazard validated with relevant fire authorities and councils. The key purpose
of the BMO is to identify areas where a planning permit is specifically required to consider the bushfire
matters prior to development occurring.
The RBPA informs a broader consideration of bushfire issues by recognising that, in specific locations,
the bushfire hazard increases the potential bushfire risk to life and property in very specific ways, for
example, due to access constraints. Addressing these factors is an important way that strategic and
settlement planning can respond to bushfire issues before specific development proposals are
considered. This provides an opportunity to resolve issues and implement mitigation measures early in
the planning process and at a strategic level.
1.4 How is an RBPA prepared?
The information in the RBPA has been identified through a two-step process:
Step 1 – Base data on planning zones and overlays, vegetation quality, lot location, sizes and patterns
and single roads into settlements was collected and correlated against the latest information on the
bushfire hazard. For the RBPA a bushfire hazard was generally considered to be a significant extent
of vegetation and the area of reference for identified areas was land in or in close proximity (200
metres) to the vegetation. Step 1 provided the initial identified areas.
Step 2 – A qualitative review of the initial identified areas was undertaken with councils, the relevant
fire authority and the Department of Sustainability and Environment and any further information based
on local knowledge was included as identified areas.
The development of the RBPA was supported by a reference group of representatives from the
Department of Planning and Community Development, Municipal Association of Victoria, councils, the
Country Fire Authority, the Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services Board, and the Growth Areas
Authority.
1.5 How should an identified area be treated?
The bushfire risk in identified areas should be assessed as part of strategic and settlement planning
and where land use issues are a factor in strengthening community resilience to bushfire (for example,
where development and growth is occurring or planned).
Minister’s Direction No. 11 - Strategic assessment of amendments requires a planning authority to
evaluate and discuss how an amendment addresses bushfire risk. The RBPA will assist planning
authorities in determining when bushfire risk should be addressed.
Not every identified area shown in the RBPA requires a specific planning response because:

there are limited land-use planning responses that can be implemented where an area is not
experiencing any change or development pressure

the anticipated nature and extent of development in specific areas, including areas already
zoned for particular uses, can be appropriately managed through the planning permit process
where the BMO applies

planning schemes cannot prevent the continuation of a lawful existing use where Clause 63 of
planning schemes protects existing use rights

bushfire issues may be best managed through non-planning responses such as Integrated
Fire Management Planning.
2
1.6 Important things to note
The RBPA complements other information that can also inform planning decisions. This includes the
Victorian Fire Risk Register, Integrated Fire Management Planning and its associated plans and
strategies and the operations and workings of fire authorities, councils and communities. Investigation
of an identified area should be informed by these and other activities that together support community
resilience to bushfire.
The RBPA therefore does not include all information captured by other processes.
The RBPA is not a bushfire risk assessment of any of the identified areas. Identified areas are based
on where the bushfire hazard correlates with land use planning considerations that may influence the
bushfire risk. The RBPA has not sought to replicate bushfire risk assessments undertaken through
other processes, particularly the Victorian Fire Risk Register.
2.0 HUME REGIONAL OVERVIEW
The Hume region is located in the north-east of Victoria and has an area of about 40 500 square
kilometres. It has a population of about 274 200 across 12 municipalities including; Alpine, Benalla,
Greater Shepparton, Indigo, Mansfield, Mitchell, Moira, Murrindindi, Strathbogie, Towong, Wangaratta
and Wodonga. It contains the main centres of Benalla, Shepparton, Wangaratta and Wodonga, as well
as the urban fringes of metropolitan Melbourne.
The Murray River extends along the northern boundary and the Great Dividing Range stretches southeast towards Melbourne.
The Murray River floodplains and hinterland includes the main centres of Wodonga and Shepparton
and the Goulburn, Broken, Kiewa, King and Ovens Rivers. An irrigation network extends throughout
the hinterland to supply an expansive agricultural area and scattered rural settlements. The Goulburn
Murray catchment is widely regarded as the food bowl of Victoria. The floodplain also includes the
Barmah National Park and internationally significant wetlands.
The Great Diving Range encompasses national and state parks, plantations, Lake Hume and Eildon
Reservoir. The Falls Creek, Mount Hotham, Lake Mountain, Mount Buller and Mount Sterling Alpine
Resorts are located in the Hume region. Small rural settlements are dispersed through the Alpine high
country, foothills and river valleys.
The southern slopes of the Great Dividing Range extend into the fringes of Melbourne. The proximity
of this area to Melbourne and its high amenity landscape supports a network of settlements.
The Mitchell, Murrindindi and Indigo Shires were affected by the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009.
2.1 The Riverina
The Riverina encompasses the northern boundary of the region and contains the Murray River,
Barmah National Park and river red gum floodplains. Main centres and small rural settlements are
located along the Murray River with direct interfaces to bushfire hazard. There is development
pressure being experienced for rural-residential lots along the river frontage.
2.2 The Alpine high country
The Alpine National Park stretches across the high country of the Great Dividing Range and includes
the alpine resorts which experience seasonal population fluctuations and include clusters of resort
chalets in bushfire hazard areas. A number of alpine resorts due to their unique topographical context
have access and egress constraints. The Falls Creek, Mount Hotham, Mount Buller and Mount
Sterling Alpine Resorts are surrounded by the Alpine National Park.
2.3 The foothills and valleys
The foothills and valleys of the Great Dividing Range contain the fertile river valleys of the Goulburn,
Kiewa, Ovens and King Rivers which are rich in biodiversity and native vegetation. Settlements are
surrounded by or located at the fringes of national and state parks, plantations and vegetated riparian
corridors. These settlements contain small residential and rural-residential lots which directly interface
bushfire hazard areas. Some settlements have access and egress constraints. Grassland and
scrubland are known bushfire hazards to rural-residential lots in valley areas.
3
2.4 The western hinterland
Settlement patterns in the western hinterland are linked to the extensive irrigation networks and flat
agricultural landscape. Rural settlements surrounding the main centre of Shepparton generally
interface with the Goulburn and Broken River
corridors. These rivers extend through several townships, with small residential lots directly interfacing
with linear vegetation corridors containing bushfire hazard.
2.5 Metropolitan interface
The southern area of the region is dominated by the Great Dividing Range and its associated dense
vegetation coverage and steep topography. The area contains the Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, many
small towns and villages, as well as scattered rural settlements in the valleys and on the slopes which
directly interface with bushfire hazard areas.
Southern areas are located close to Melbourne’s urban fringe, providing attractive rural living
environments and contain a multitude of scattered settlements. Small lots are widespread across this
region and are located in bushfire hazard areas with access and egress constraints.
This area of the region contains many of the townships affected during the 2009 Black Saturday
bushfires including Marysville, Narbethong, Strath Creek, Flowerdale and Kinglake.
3.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – ALPINE SHIRE
Alpine Shire is located in the north-east of the region and has a land area of about 4800 square
kilometres. It has a population of about 12 850 mostly located in small rural settlements. The Shire’s
main centre is Myrtleford with a population of 2650, located approximately 270 kilometres north-east of
Melbourne and approximately 70 kilometres south of Wodonga.
The Shire comprises approximately 92% of public land consisting of mountainous public forest such
as Mount Buffalo National Park, state forests and significant sections of the Alpine National Park. The
remaining area contains scattered settlements and farming land located along the flood plains of the
Ovens and Kiewa valleys. Falls Creek and Mount Hotham resort areas are located in the Shire’s
borders, although excluded from the Alpine Shire municipal district.
Areas of significant biodiversity typically follow watercourses through undulating valleys on private
land and throughout state and national parks. The protection of native vegetation is managed through
the Significant Landscape Overlay which applies to a number of valleys in the Shire.
3.1 North-eastern area
The north-eastern area of the municipality contains scattered settlements along the Ovens Valley. This
area contains small residential and rural-residential settlements with direct interfaces to state forests
and corresponding bushfire hazard areas.
There is development pressure in the region, primarily along the road corridor east of and in small
pockets adjacent to Mount Beauty which is an established settlement set amongst a treed and hilly
environment.
Vegetated areas extend along the hillsides and along watercourses which traverse the valley, while
agricultural land and small settlements exist throughout. Much of this vegetation is of very high or high
conservation significance.
3.2 North-western and central areas
The Ovens Valley stretches between the north-western and central areas of the municipality and is the
most developed area of the shire. The valley includes multiple townships which interface with bushfire
hazard areas. Development pressure is being experienced in numerous pockets in the main valley
floodplains, as well as in small valleys which stretch up into the hills.
Similar to other areas in the municipality, vegetated landscapes stretch along the hillsides and
watercourses which traverse the valley, while agricultural land and small to medium sized lots and
settlements exist throughout. Much of this vegetation is recognised as being of very high or high
conservation significance and penetrates into established urban settlements.
4
3.3 Southern area
The southern area of the shire is dominated by mountainous and forested public land including the
Alpine National Park and is largely devoid of settlements.
ALPINE – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
0-001
Bogong
Cluster of lots used for residential development in a bushfire
hazard area. The lots are Crown land in a leased settlement,
with direct interface with bushfire hazard areas and state park.
0-002
Falls Creek
Cluster of small lots containing resort chalets in bushfire
hazard areas, associated with the surrounding Alpine National
Park.
0-003
Hotham Heights
Cluster of small lots containing resort chalets in bushfire
hazard areas associated with the surrounding Alpine National
Park
0-004
Dinner Plain
Cluster of small lots, including chalets, in bushfire hazard area
associated with the Alpine National Park, and scattered
remnant vegetation patches.
0-005
Cobungra
Development pressure is being experienced throughout
clusters of undeveloped lots east of Dinner Plain, following the
Great Alpine Road, in a bushfire hazard area.
0-006
Harrietville
The township of Harrietville and associated small lots are in
and surrounded by bushfire hazard area associated with the
Mount Buffalo National Park.
0-007
Merriang South,
Buffalo River
Development pressure is being experienced to the south and
east of Merriang South for rural living towards bushfire hazard
areas associated with mountains and a river corridor. Clusters
of larger rural-residential lots already exist in this locality.
0-008
Nug Nug
Larger rural-residential lots, surrounding Nug Nug and along
the Buffalo River Road, are in close proximity to bushfire
hazard areas. Vegetation type and settlement pattern in the
area may influence bushfire hazard.
Vegetation in the area is of high conservation significance.
0-009
Myrtleford, Ovens
Township of Myrtleford and associated rural-residential lots
extending to Ovens in the south are in or in proximity to a
bushfire hazard area. Lots are largely developed with some
undeveloped land in and surrounding the Myrtleford and
Ovens townships. The settlements are surrounded by
vegetated and hilly topography which includes scattered
remnant vegetation.
0-010
Bogong
Bogong settlement relies on a single constructed road
extending north from Bogong High Plains Road to Falls Creek
to the south.
0-011
Bright
Small residential lots in the township of Bright, including
undeveloped lots located in a bushfire hazard area associated
with the surrounding state park.
Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very high
conservation significance.
5
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
0-012
Noonamena /
Eurobin
Development pressure is being experienced in the
Noonamena area and north of the Porepunkah settlement
along the Great Alpine Road between One Mile Creek Road
and Fernydale Lane in close proximity to bushfire hazard area.
Multiple houses are located on larger lots in this area.
0-013
Buckland
Development pressure is being experienced to the south-west
of Porepunkah along the Buckland-Valley Road in proximity to
and in a bushfire hazard area.
0-014
Buckland
Development pressure is being experienced south of
Porepunkah settlement along the Buckland-Valley Road
between Goldie Spur Track and the head of the valley in a
bushfire hazard area. A historical subdivision exists in this
area.
0-015
Wandiligong
Development pressure is being experienced south of Bright
along the Morses Creek Road for lifestyle living in a bushfire
hazard area.
0-016
Germantown,
Incremental approval of low-density dwellings along Great
Smoko, Freeburgh Alpine Road between Bright and Harrietville in bushfire hazard
area. This area includes Smoko, Freeburgh and Germantown.
0-017
Havilah
Larger rural-residential lots, along Havilah Road, in a valley
surrounded by bushfire hazard areas.
Vegetation type and settlement pattern in the area may
influence bushfire hazard. Vegetation in the area is of high
conservation significance.
0-018
Kancoona
Development pressure and access issues along Kancoona
South Road surrounded by state forest and associated
bushfire hazard area.
0-019
Dederang
Development pressure is being experienced along Kiewa
Valley Highway, to the north-west of Dederang township and
towards Wodonga, in proximity to bushfire hazard associated
with adjoining state park.
0-020
Tawonga
Development pressure is being experienced north of Tawonga
along and surrounding Kellers Road, in a bushfire hazard
area.
0-021
Tawonga
Development pressure is being experienced east of Tawonga
along Mountain Creek Road in a bushfire hazard area
associated with the state park.
0-022
Falls Creek
Falls Creek resort and chalet area relies on a single arterial
road for access and egress from the bushfire hazard area.
0-023
Mount Beauty
Mount Beauty township and associated small rural lots,
including some undeveloped, are in or in proximity to a
bushfire hazard area. The settlement is surrounded to the east
and south by state park.
0-024
Falls Creek
Boundaries of Falls Creek resort area interface with remnant
vegetation and associated bushfire hazard.
6
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
0-025
Barwidgee
Cluster of rural-residential lots at Barwidgee, to the north-east
of Myrtleford, are in a bushfire hazard area. The area is
surrounded by the vegetated state park on the north and
south.
0-026
Mount Beauty
Cluster of rural-residential lots to the south-east of Mount
Beauty township in close proximity to a bushfire hazard area.
The area is in proximity to a heavily vegetated area of the
state park to the south, west and north.
0-027
Dederang
Dederang township and nearby rural-residential properties are
in proximity to bushfire hazard area associated with Mount
Jack to the south-west.
0-028
Mount Beauty
West and south boundary of Mount Beauty and surrounding
settlement interfaces with remnant vegetation and bushfire
hazard associated with surrounding state park.
0-029
Myrtleford
Northern area of Myrtleford interfaces with an area of remnant
vegetation and bushfire hazard.
0-030
Dinner Plain
North, south and west boundaries of Dinner Plain interface
with remnant vegetation patches and with bushfire hazard.
0-031
Harrietville
Harrietville township is entirely surrounded by an interface with
the Mount Buffalo National Park and associated bushfire
hazard.
0-032
Hotham Heights
Resort at Mt Hotham relies on single constructed road
extending, Great Alpine Road, for access and egress from
bushfire hazard area.
0-033
Porepunkah
Limited access and egress to cluster of dwellings to the northeast of Porepunkah.
0-034
Hotham Heights
Boundaries of Hotham Heights interface with remnant
vegetation and associated bushfire hazard.
0-035
Porepunkah
Dwellings to east of Porepunkah in a bushfire hazard area
have limited access and egress.
0-036
Bright
Single constructed road extending east (Great Alpine Road)
servicing the Bright settlement and surrounding settlements..
0-037
Porepunkah
Residential lots and rural-residential lots (including
undeveloped lots) in Porepunkah are in a bushfire hazard area
associated with the surrounding state park.
0-038
Noonamena
Dwellings utilise single access roads which extend through
bushfire hazard areas including development which is serviced
by Mt Buffalo Road.
0-039
Porepunkah
South western boundary of the Porepunkah settlement and
surrounding settlements interfaces with remnant vegetation
and bushfire hazard.
0-040
Bright
Southern boundary of Bright interfaces with remnant
vegetation and bushfire hazard included in mountainous
landscapes connecting to the Alpine National Park area.
7
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
0-041
Bright
Northern boundary of Bright interfaces with remnant
vegetation included in mountainous landscapes containing
bushfire hazard.
0-042
Buckland
Dwellings in the Buckland Valley have limited access and
egress – provided principally by a single constructed road
(Buckland Valley Road).
0-043
Wandiligong
Wandiligong interfaces with surrounding state park and
bushfire hazard.
0-044
Harrietville
Great Alpine Road serves as the only arterial access route for
cluster settlements which interface with the Alpine National
Park.
0-045
Wandiligong
Cluster of small rural lots in bushfire hazard area.
0-046
Wandiligong
Single constructed road extending north to south through the
town of Wandiligong
0-047
Mount Beauty
Structure plan provides for some new residential development
and intensification of existing areas towards the bushfire
hazard area on the west side of the township.
0-048
Freeburgh
Small residential lots are surrounded by state forest and are in
the associated bushfire hazard area.
0-049
Barwidgee
Western boundary of the Barwidgee settlement interfaces with
remnant vegetation and associated bushfire hazard.
4.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – BENALLA RURAL CITY
Benalla Rural City is located in the northern centre of the region and has a land area of about 2350
square kilometres. The municipality has a population of about 14 300. Benalla township with a
population of 8950 is located approximately 200 kilometres north of Melbourne and 40 kilometres
south of Wangaratta.
The landscape is characterised by a patchwork of foothills, valleys and cleared grazing country. Mount
Samaria, Reef Hills and Warby Ranges State Parks are the city’s major environmental features.
Primary production is the predominant land use covering the northern and central areas of the
municipality including broad acre cropping and prime lamb and beef production.
Areas of significant biodiversity are located throughout the landscape, along road reserves,
watercourses and in and adjacent to state parks. The protection of native vegetation is managed
through the Vegetation Protection, Environmental Significance and Significant Landscape Overlays
which apply to the selected habitat, scattered tree areas and biodiversity environs throughout the
municipality.
4.1 Northern and central areas
The northern and central areas of the municipality are dominated by rural land uses and scattered
settlements. Within this area is Lake Mokoan; once a reservoir, it is now a wetland reserve. The
wetland area is a known bushfire hazard with direct interfaces to small and rural-residential lots.
Growth opportunities have been identified south of Benalla, towards the Reef Hills State Park and
known bushfire hazard areas. Development pressure (residential and tourism) is being experienced in
land adjacent to the Warby Ranges.
Highly vegetated areas are generally located on public land. These include the Warby Ranges State
Park in the north-east and areas mapped as being of very high and high conservation significance
scattered throughout the landscape.
8
4.2 Southern area
The southern area of the municipality is characterised by the foothills of the Mount Samaria State
Park. Limited settlements exist in this area however development pressure is being experienced in
small pockets and towards the head of valley landscapes. There are some existing lots which interface
with corresponding bushfire hazard and have single road access arrangements. The foothills of the
state park have been highly modified and as such only have limited areas of vegetation identified as
being high or very high conservation significance.
BENALLA – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFED AREA DESCRIPTION
81-001
Lima East
Rural living subdivision (including some undeveloped lots) in
remote area north of Lima East in proximity to a bushfire
hazard area.
81-002
Lima East
Rural-residential lots in remote area, southern end of Lima
East Road, surrounded by state park and associated bushfire
hazard.
81-003
Benalla
South western extent of Benalla is proximate to bushfire
hazard associated with Reef Hills State Park (south-west of
the Hume Hwy and Midland Freeway intersection).
81-004
Tatong
Township of Tatong is experiencing development pressure in
proximity to a bushfire hazard area.
81-005
Warby Ranges
Development pressure, including for tourism activities, is being
experienced adjacent to the Warby Ranges in a bushfire
hazard area.
81-006
Thoona
Woodland vegetation surrounds the Thoona township at the
intersection of Sargent Street and Thoona-Devenish Road.
Established development is surrounded by woodland
vegetation.
81-007
Lake Mokoan
Settlement along the old Lake Mokoan foreshore interfaces
with the known bushfire hazard associated with the grassland
area.
81-008
Lima East
Single dirt access road services rural-residential lots in a
mountainous and vegetated environment.
81-009
Benalla
Strategic Framework Plan for Benalla provides for residential
development south-west towards the Reef Hills State Park and
associated bushfire hazard.
81-010
Tatong
Residential and nearby rural-residential lots at Tatong are in
proximity to the bushfire hazard area associated with the
reserve to the south-east.
5.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – CITY OF GREATER SHEPPARTON
The City of Greater Shepparton is located in the north-west of the region and has an area of about
2422 square kilometres. It has a population of about 63 350 dispersed between the larger settlements
of Shepparton and Mooroopna and numerous smaller townships.
The rural landscape is generally flat and irrigated. It is used mainly for dairy farming and horticulture,
including wineries and orchards with the region being a major fruit and vegetable processing centre.
The City’s growth has been associated with the development of agricultural industries such as stone
fruit, pear, apple, tomato and dairy production as well as cattle, sheep and grain production.
9
The natural landscape of the municipality and wider region has been modified significantly as a result
of pastoral activities and more recently through extensive irrigation activities. As a result, areas of
remnant native vegetation are primarily limited to watercourses, road reserves and public land
although some larger lots in private ownership which have not been utilised for agricultural purposes
also contain pockets of significant vegetation. These vegetated corridors provide important habitat
links for flora and fauna and for the fostering of biodiversity. The main rivers through the municipality
are the Broken and Goulburn Rivers.
5.1 Western area
The western area of the municipality contains flat, rural land with scattered remnant vegetation along
roadsides and infrastructure corridors. Most land holdings are large and associated with farming
activities. This area contains settlements with developed or undeveloped small residential or ruralresidential lots. The Salinity Management Overlay applies to most of the area. It controls the removal
of native vegetation and minimises land disturbance. The western portion of the municipality is largely
a modified environment devoid of vegetation interfacing with existing settlements.
5.2 Central area
Settlement in the central area of the municipality is generally developed around the Goulburn and
Broken Rivers. These rivers and their associated riparian corridors extend through several townships,
with small residential lots directly backing onto them. To the north-west, the Goulburn River floodplain
extends into Shepparton and Mooroopna. The bushfire hazard associated with this floodplain directly
interfaces with small residential lots on the western side of Shepparton and Mooroopna. New
subdivisions have also been developed which take advantage of these frontages to enhance
residential amenity.
Land on the bends of the Goulburn River has been developed or has approved subdivisions for ruralresidential lots. Most of these subdivisions interface directly with a bushfire hazard as they contain
remnant vegetation on developed and undeveloped land.
5.3 South eastern area
The bushfire hazard extends through the main settlement in this area, which has developed on both
sides of the Goulburn River and contains small residential lots that directly adjoin the riparian corridor.
Land to the south-west and north are identified as bushfire hazard areas. The bushfire hazard
interfaces for these places are identified for future residential or rural-residential development.
GREATER SHEPPARTON – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
28-001
Shepparton,
Mooroopna
Residential areas of Shepparton, Mooroopna and Kialla are in
proximity to remnant vegetation which follows the Goulburn
River floodplain and associated bushfire hazard area.
Existing vegetation includes vegetation of high and very high
conservation significance.
28-002
Toolamba
Residential lots in Toolamba are in proximity to bushfire
hazard associated with the reserve to the east and riparian
vegetation of the Goulburn River.
28-003
Kialla
Rural-residential subdivision between Rafferty Road and the
Goulburn River floodplain is in close proximity to remnant
vegetation patches along the Goulburn River corridor and
associated bushfire hazard area.
28-004
Toolamba
Cluster of residential lots to the south-west of Toolamba
adjoins the bushfire hazard area associated with riparian
vegetation of the Goulburn River to the east.
28-005
Acadia
Residential lots in the township of Arcadia are in proximity to
the bushfire hazard area associated with the remnant
vegetation along the Goulburn River corridor,
10
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
28-006
Murchison North
Cluster of rural-residential lots between MooroopnaMurchison Road and the Goulburn River. Lots are in close
proximity to remnant vegetation along the Goulburn River
corridor and associated bushfire hazard area.
28-007
Murchison
Residential lots in the township of Murchison are in proximity
to remnant vegetation in the Goulburn River Corridor, which
passes through the settlement, and associated bushfire
hazard area. Existing vegetation includes vegetation of high
and very high conservation significance.
28-008
Murchison
Development pressure is being experienced in a large area
between Bendigo-Murchison Road and Murchison-Goulburn
Weir Road. This area is in an area of scattered remnant
vegetation, including vegetation of high and very high
conservation significance, and associated bushfire hazard.
28-009
Toolamba
Development pressure is being experienced in and
surrounding Toolamba in proximity to riparian vegetation and
associated bushfire hazard areas.
28-010
Shepparton,
Mooroopna
The western boundary of the Shepparton and the eastern
boundary of Mooroopna interface with remnant vegetation
along the Goulburn River floodplain and associated bushfire
hazard.
28-011
Kialla
Western boundary of the rural-residential subdivision in Kialla
interfaces with remnant vegetation along the Goulburn River
corridor and associated bushfire hazard.
28-012
Toolamba
Eastern and southern boundary of Toolamba interface with a
reserve and remnant vegetation along the Goulburn River
corridor and associated bushfire hazard.
28-013
Toolamba
Strategic direction for growth is to the east of Toolamba,
towards a bushfire hazard area.
28-014
Arcadia
Western boundary of Arcadia interfaces with remnant
vegetation and associated bushfire hazard area.
28-015
Toolamba
Cluster of residential lots to the south of Toolamba interface
with the bushfire hazard area associated with riparian
vegetation of the Goulburn River to the east.
28-016
Broken River
Includes scattered developed lots adjacent to and in the
Broken River riparian vegetation corridor. Broader area both
north and south of the river contains developed agricultural
land.
6.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – INDIGO SHIRE
Indigo Shire is located in the north-east of the region and has a land area of about 2044 square
kilometres. It has a population of 16 100 located primarily in rural settlements. The shire’s main centre
is Beechworth with a population of 2600 located approximately 270 kilometres north-east of
Melbourne and 56 kilometres south of Wodonga.
The Shire’s historic towns, grape production areas, high altitude fruit growing areas, productive river
flats and close proximity to the rapidly growing centre of Albury-Wodonga have produced a diverse
combination of land uses and attributes. The shire sits at the junction of three distinct landscapes. The
north is home to the Murray River and its flood plains, the east comprises hilly country and highly
productive river flats, while the west is where the Great Dividing Range transitions to the Western
11
Plains. Areas of significant biodiversity are mostly found adjacent to, and in the valleys that exist
between public land. Environmental Significance and Significant Landscape Overlays manage the
protection of native vegetation across large areas of the municipality.
In 2009 the areas around Beechworth and Mudgegonga were affected by the Black Saturday
bushfires.
6.1 North western area
The north-western area of the municipality contains the Chiltern Box-Iron Bark National Park. It also
contains a number of settlements which interface with bushfire hazard areas. Some of these
settlements are experiencing development pressures in locations where vegetation is of high or very
high conservation significance and are also susceptible to bushfires.
6.2 Central area
The central area of the municipality contains a large amount of vegetation which has been mapped as
being of high or very high conservation significance. There are two main settlements in this area which
make up much of the private land between valleys and state parks. The settlements contain clusters of
small lots and of rural-residential lots in close proximity or directly interfacing with bushfire hazard
areas. Some areas are also experiencing development pressure or contain undeveloped lots on the
settlement outskirts with direct interfaces to surrounding vegetation.
6.3 Eastern area
The eastern area of the municipality is not as densely vegetated as the other areas however it does
include some vegetation which is of high or very high conservation significance. This region includes
lots which are in proximity to a bushfire hazard area. Additionally, there are pockets of land adjacent to
vegetated public land that is experiencing development pressure. Settlements in these areas are
generally serviced by single access roads.
INDIGO – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
34-001
Rutherglen
Cluster of rural-residential lots south-west of Rutherglen, off
Sheridans Bridge Road, is in close proximity to a bushfire
hazard area associated with scattered remnant vegetation to
the south.
34-002
Chiltern Valley
Cluster of rural-residential lots in Chiltern Valley along
Chiltern Valley Road in proximity to a bushfire hazard area
associated with the Chiltern Box-Ironbark National Park to the
north-east.
34-003
Chiltern
Township of Chiltern is in proximity to the Chiltern BoxIronbark National Park (north and south-east) and associated
bushfire hazard area.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
34-004
Chiltern
Development pressure is being experienced along Chiltern
Rutherglen Road adjacent to the Chiltern Box-Ironbark
National Park and associated bushfire hazard area.
34-005
Chiltern
Development pressure is being experienced along Old
Howlong Road adjacent to the Chiltern Box-Ironbark National
Park and associated bushfire hazard area.
34-006
Brimin
Residential accommodation uses adjacent to Ovens River
accessed via Murray Valley Highway in Brimin in close
proximity to remnant vegetation to the west and associated
bushfire hazard.
12
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
34-007
Chiltern /
Barnawartha
Incremental approval of low-density dwellings and future
growth potential is being experienced between Chiltern and
Barnawartha along Chiltern-Barnawartha Road and adjacent
to the Chiltern Box-Ironbark National Park and associated
bushfire hazard.
34-008
Indigo Valley
Development pressure is being experienced along Watchbox
Road and Black Dog Creek Road towards a bushfire hazard
area associated with remnant vegetation.
34-009
Indigo Valley
Development pressure is being experienced along Long Gully
Road in proximity to bushfire hazard associated with remnant
vegetation.
34-010
Beechworth
Township of Beechworth and associated rural-residential lots
are in proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated with
nearby remnant vegetation and plantations.
34-011
Beechworth
Combination of clusters of small rural lots and larger ruralresidential lots in close proximity to a bushfire hazard area
(with potential for future pressures) in the foothills which
surround Beechworth.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
34-012
Yackandandah
Yackandandah township and surrounding small rural lots are
in proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated with state
forest and remnant vegetation in the settlement area.
34-013
Osbornes Flat
Rural-residential lots at Osbornes Flat are in proximity to a
bushfire hazard area associated with the reserve to the west
and riparian vegetation of the Yackandandah Creek, which
passes through the area.
34-014
Yackandandah
Development pressure is being experienced along Basin
Creek Road and Hodges Lane north of the Yackandandah
settlement towards a bushfire hazard area associated with
state forest.
34-015
Staghorn Flat
Development pressure is being experienced south of
Wodonga along Yackandah-Wodonga Road towards a
bushfire hazard area associated with the Baranduda Range
Regional Park.
34-016
Kergunyah
Development pressure is being experienced along Simpson
Road, towards a bushfire hazard area associated with state
forest.
34-017
Kergunyah
Development pressure is being experienced along Besley
Lane and Hellhole Creek Road towards a bushfire hazard area
associated with state forest.
34-018
Kiewa
Development pressure is being experienced along
Steinhausers Track towards a bushfire hazard area associated
with state forest.
34-019
Kiewa
Cluster of small lots in and surrounding Tangambalanga in
proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated with state forest
to the west.
13
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
34-020
Sandy Creek
Development pressure is being experienced along Sandy
Creek Road towards a bushfire hazard area associated with
state forest.
34-021
Stanley
Township of Stanley and surrounding rural-residential lots are
in and in proximity to the bushfire hazard area associated with
the Mount Stanley scenic reserve to the west and south.
34-022
Osbornes Flat
Undeveloped Rural Living Zone land exists in proximity to a
bushfire hazard area associated with the reserve to the west
and riparian vegetation of the Yackandandah Creek which
passes through the area.
34-023
Chiltern
Northern boundary of Chiltern interfaces with bushfire hazard
associated with the Chiltern Box-Ironbark National Park.
34-024
Wahgunyah
Western boundary of Wahgunyah interfaces with bushfire
hazard associated with riparian corridor along the Murray
River.
34-025
Beechworth
Cluster of rural-residential lots surrounding Buckland Road
south of Beechworth is in proximity to a bushfire hazard area
associated with remnant vegetation to the east and riparian
vegetation traversing the area.
34-026
Barnawartha
Cluster of residential lots (including undeveloped lots) in and
surrounding Barnawartha in proximity to remnant vegetation
and bushfire hazard area to the east.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
34-027
Wahgunyah
Residential lots in the township of Wahgunyah are in proximity
to a bushfire hazard area associated with the Murray River
riparian corridor.
34-028
Sandy Creek
Sandy Creek Road, a single constructed road, services
dwellings.
34-029
Kergunyah
Hellhole Creek Road, a single constructed road, services
dwellings.
34-030
Yackandandah
Basin Creek Road, a single constructed road, services
dwellings.
34-031
Yackandandah
Western boundary of Yackandandah interfaces with bushfire
hazard associated with state forest.
34-032
Beechworth
Northern, eastern and western boundaries of Beechworth
interface with bushfire hazard associated with remnant
vegetation and plantations.
34-033
Stanley
The township of Stanley relies on Stanley Road for access
and egress from bushfire hazard area.
7.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – MANSFIELD SHIRE
Mansfield Shire is located in the south of the region and has a land area of about 3900 square
kilometres. The main township is Mansfield, with a population of 3000 located approximately 180
kilometres north-east of Melbourne and 65 kilometres south of Benalla. The population for the entire
municipality is approximately 7972.
14
The population has continued to increase incrementally in recent years. This is partly attributed to the
municipality being part of the ‘tree change’ trend, including a tendency for absentee landowners to
become permanent residents when they retire.
The shire is characterised by its cleared grazing country, valleys, foothills and mountains which extend
from the western side of the Great Dividing Range. Parts of the Alpine National Park (including Mt
Buller and Mt Stirling) fall in the Shire’s boundaries, along with part of the Lake Eildon National Park.
There are a number of small settlements throughout the Shire however these settlements have
relatively small permanent populations.
Due to the modification of the landscape for grazing, areas of significant biodiversity are primarily
limited to the undulating landscapes adjacent to the Alpine and Lake Eildon National Parks, along
watercourses and in some areas of scattered vegetation. The clearance of native vegetation is
managed through the Environmental Significance and Significant Landscape Overlays which apply to
water supply catchments, remnant vegetation patches and significant vegetated landscapes.
Areas where development pressure is being experienced are near forested land and often in locations
where there is only one access road.
7.1 Northern area
The northern area of the municipality is where the majority of settlements are located. Settlements
adjacent to the Alpine National Park in the north interface with bushfire hazard areas. In addition to
these existing settlements, there is development pressure in a number of areas in the region, including
land adjacent to the Lake Eildon foreshore and pockets adjoining the Alpine National Park in the east.
Vegetated areas extend from the national park towards the agricultural landscape in the centre of the
municipality’s northern area. While some areas are devoid of significant vegetation, there are pockets
of vegetation mapped as being high or very high conservation significance scattered throughout the
landscape, mainly to the north and north-east.
7.2 Southern area
The southern area of the municipality is predominantly public land, including the Alpine National Park.
However, some settlements exist along Mansfield-Woods Point Road which follows a narrow valley
between Jamieson and Woods Point. The existing settlements interact with bushfire hazard areas of
dense vegetation considered to be of high or very high conservation significance. This valley contains
single access road arrangements.
MANSFIELD – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
82-001
Tolmie
Cluster of rural-residential lots along Bunston Road are in
proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated with remnant
vegetation and plantation.
82-002
Mount Buller
Cluster of resort chalets at Mount Buller in bushfire hazard
areas associated with the surrounding Alpine National Park.
82-003
Sawmill Settlement Residential lots in and to the south of Sawmill Settlement,
including some undeveloped, are in the bushfire hazard area
associated with the surrounding Alpine National Park.
82-004
Bonnie Doon
Development pressure is being experienced to the north and
south of Bonnie Doon, including stretching along Lake Eildon
towards a bushfire hazard area associated with scattered
remnant vegetation and pine plantations.
82-005
Howes Creek /
Goughs Bay
Development pressure is being experienced in Howes Creek
and Goughs Bay, between Howes Creek and Lake Eildon,
towards a bushfire hazard area associated with scattered
remnant vegetation and plantations. There is already a
substantial number of dwellings on larger rural-residential lots
in this locality.
15
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
82-006
Tolmie
Plantations in the area surrounding Tolmie, are a known
bushfire hazard.
82-007
Macs Cove to
Goughs Bay
Development pressure is being experienced (including in the
Special Use Zone, residential golf estate) between Macs Cove
and Goughs Bay towards a bushfire hazard area associated
with remnant vegetation.
82-008
Howqua Inlet
Cluster of residential lots at Howqua Inlet, in a bushfire hazard
area associated with surrounding remnant vegetation.
82-009
Sawmill settlement All boundaries of Sawmill Settlement interface with bushfire
hazard associated with the Alpine National Park.
82-010
Jamison /
Kevington
Clusters of rural-residential lots along Mansfield-Woods Point
Road are in the bushfire hazard area associated with the
surrounding Lake Eildon National Park and Alpine National
Park.
Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very high
conservation significance.
82-011
Mount Buller
Mount Buller resort chalets rely on Mount Buller Tourist Road
for access and egress from the Alpine National Park. Single
constructed road extending east and west along Mount Buller
Tourist Road.
82-012
Merrijig
Cluster of small lots in Merrijig along the Mount Buller Tourist
Drive in a bushfire hazard area containing remnant vegetation
interfacing with the Alpine National Park to the south, north
and east.
82-013
Woods Point
Township of Woods Point interfaces with bushfire hazard
associated with surrounding national park.
82-014
Enochs Point
Big River Road, a single dirt access road, services the cluster
of rural-residential dwellings at Enochs Point.
82-015
Merrijig
Development pressure is being experienced along and
surrounding Buttercup Road, in known bushfire hazard area
associated with the Alpine National Park to the north and east.
82-016
Merrijig
Sawmill Settlement and Mount Buller, to the east, are serviced
by Mount Buller Tourist Road as the sole access and egress
from the bushfire hazard area associated with the Alpine
National Park.
82-017
Howqua Hills
Cluster of developed and undeveloped small rural-residential
properties surrounded by Alpine National Park.
82-018
Mount Buller
Mount Buller resort area interfaces with the bushfire hazard
associated with the surrounding Alpine National Park.
82-019
Tolmie
Rural-residential dwellings in the locality of Tolmie rely
primarily on Altmans Road / Old Tomie Road for access and
egress from a bushfire hazard area.
82-020
Goughs Bay
Residential lots in a golf estate at Goughs Bay are in proximity
to the bushfire hazard areas associated with Lake Eildon
National Park to the west and the reserve to the east.
16
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
82-021
Macs Cove
Cluster of residential lots at Macs Cove, in a bushfire hazard
area associated with remnant vegetation principally to the
north-west and east.
82-022
Jamieson
Old Tolmie road, a single constructed road extends north from
Barwite servicing dwellings.
82-023
Goughs Bay
Main Street, extending from Howes Creek-Goughs Bay Road,
is the primary access route for dwellings in Goughs Bay.
82-024
Jamieson to
Woods Point
Townships of Jamieson, Kevington and Woodspoint rely on a
single arterial road as the primary access and egress from
bushfire hazard area.
82-025
Mansfield
Multiple bushfire matters including:
 clusters of rural-residential lots in a bushfire hazard area
associated with remnant vegetation and plantation
 further development pressure is being experienced in this
area
 single access road extends from north to south (Riffle Butts
Road).
82-026
Howqua Inlet
Cluster of rural-residential lots east of Howqua Inlet between
Mansfield-Woods Point Road and Lake Eildon. The area is
surrounded by bushfire hazard associated with remnant
vegetation.
82-027
Tolmie
Rural-residential lots in Tolmie, on the Tatong-Tolmie Road,
are in close proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated
with remnant vegetation and plantations.
82-028
Knockwood
Clusters of rural-residential lots at Knockwood are in the
bushfire hazard area associated with the surrounding Lake
Eildon National Park and Alpine National Park.
Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very high
conservation significance.
82-029
Gaffney Creeks
Clusters of rural-residential lots at Gaffney Creek along
Mansfield-Woods Point Road are in the bushfire hazard area
associated with the surrounding Lake Eildon National Park
and Alpine National Park.
Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very high
conservation significance.
82-030
Jamieson
Jamieson interfaces with bushfire hazard associated with the
surrounding national park.
82-031
Enochs Point
Cluster of small rural lots in Enochs Point in a bushfire hazard
area associated with the Lake Eildon National Park. Includes
developed and undeveloped lots.
82-032
Woods Point
Residential lots in the township of Woods Point located in a
bushfire hazard area associated with the surrounding forest
and undulating topography.
8.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – MITCHELL SHIRE
Mitchell Shire is located at the southern end of the region and can be characterised as having a periurban environment. It has a land area of about 2800 square kilometres and a population of about 35
050. The Shire contains a range of townships of varying sizes. The three largest towns are Seymour,
17
Broadford and Wallan. The remainder of the population is located in Kilmore, Wandong, Heathcote
Junction, Pylong, and Tallarook, and in small scattered settlements. The area between Wallan and the
southern boundary is located in the Urban Growth Boundary of metropolitan Melbourne and is
designated for future residential growth. The Hume Highway and Northern Highway provide strategic
state and national transport links through the municipality.
The main land use in the municipality is primary production. Manufacturing, retail and other uses are
located in townships. The Puckapunyal Army base is also a significant land use and employer in the
region. The proximity of the Shire to Melbourne means that many people live in the Shire but commute
to Melbourne for employment.
Areas of significant biodiversity exist around the foothills of the Great Dividing Range in areas such as
the Kinglake National Park, Mount Disappointment State Forest and Tallarook State Forest, and to
road reserves and along watercourses including the Goulburn River. The protection of native
vegetation is managed through the Environmental Significance, Salinity Management, Erosion
Management and Vegetation Management Overlays which apply to these parks, riparian corridors and
other areas of remnant vegetation in the municipality.
In 2009, areas in the eastern part of the municipality were affected by the Black Saturday bushfires.
8.1 Eastern area
The eastern area of the municipality contains the Tallarook State Park and the Tallarook Ranges,
numerous smaller state forest areas, and scattered rural settlements. Settlements are often located on
the fringes of park environments and contain small residential or rural-residential lots which directly
interface with the corresponding bushfire hazard.
Settlements adjoining forested areas are surrounded by vegetation of high and very high conservation
significance. These townships contain a direct interface with the bushfire hazard associated with
vegetated areas. Other settlements are surrounded by the forest and contain small lots in a vegetated
landscape. Clusters of rural-residential lots in this area are located in bushfire hazard areas.
Other settlements are scattered throughout the landscape, intersected by vegetation corridors mapped
as being of high and very high conservation significance and containing rural-residential lots
interfacing with or in proximity to bushfire hazard. Several plantations, nature reserves and
watercourses are identified as bushfire hazards in close proximity to small and rural-residential
settlements.
8.2 Central area
The central area of the municipality contains the Puckapunyal Army Base, numerous state forests,
small towns and scattered rural settlements. Settlements are located on the fringes of forests and
contain small residential or rural-residential lots directly interfacing with vegetated bushfire hazard
landscapes.
Settlements adjoining forested areas are surrounded by vegetation of high or very high conservation
significance. These townships contain a direct interface with bushfire hazard. Other settlements are
surrounded by the forest and contain small rural lots in a vegetated landscape.
A limited number of plantations, nature reserves and watercourses are also identified as bushfire
hazards.
8.3 Western area
Settlements are located on the fringes of forested areas and contain small residential or ruralresidential lots which directly interface with bushfire hazard areas. However, settlement in the region is
generally scattered and limited.
MITCHELL – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
46-001
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
Beveridge / Hume
Freeway
Land to the north of the metropolitan area of Melbourne
located in the Urban Growth Boundary and zoned for future
urban growth.
18
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
46-002
Hidden Valley,
Wallan (between
Northern Highway
and Hume
Freeway
Cluster of developed and undeveloped residential lots to the
north of Wallan in proximity to a vegetated bushfire hazard
area to the north.
46-003
Upper Plenty
Clusters of medium rural-residential lots in and in close
proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated with the
Kinglake National Park and the foothills of the Great Dividing
Range.
46-004
Reedy Creek
Cluster of small rural-residential lots to the east of Waterford
Park in a bushfire hazard area.
46-005
Tallarook
Residential lots in the township of Tallarook are in close
proximity to a bushfire hazard area to the east, the Kinglake
National Park and the foothills of the Great Dividing Range to
the east and the riparian vegetation associated with the
Goulburn River.
46-006
Wandong /
Residential lots in the townships of Wandong and Heathcote
Heathcote Junction Junction are in proximity to bushfire hazard areas to the east
and south-east including scattered vegetation, grasslands, the
Kinglake National Park and the foothills of the Great Dividing
Range.
46-007
Tyaak
Cluster of rural-residential lots in and in close proximity to
bushfire hazard areas associated with remnant vegetation
patches, grasslands, and the foothills of the Great Dividing
Range.
46-008
Reedy Creek
Cluster of residential and rural-residential lots in and in close
proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated with remnant
vegetation patches, riparian vegetation, grasslands and the
foothills of the Great Dividing Range.
46-009
Beveridge / Hume
Freeway and
Wallan
Open grasslands are a known bushfire hazard on the western
and north-western boundary of land in the Urban Growth
Boundary, as well as to the western side of Wallan.
46-010
Kilmore
Residential lots in Kilmore are in proximity to bushfire hazard
associated with scattered patches of remnant vegetation.
46-011
Kilmore
The Kilmore Strategic Framework Plan provides for residential
development into area of bushfire hazard to the south-east
associated with open grasslands and scattered remnant
vegetation.
46-012
Hidden Valley,
Wallan (between
Northern Highway
and Hume
Freeway)
The Wallan Strategic Framework Plan provides for residential
development into areas of bushfire hazard to the north.
46-013
Reedy Creek
Cluster of rural-residential lots at Reedy Creek rely on a single
road for access and egress from a bushfire hazard area.
46-014
Seymour
South eastern extent of Seymour interfaces with bushfire
hazard associated with patches of remnant vegetation.
46-015
Tallarook
Western boundary of Tallarook interfaces with vegetated area.
19
9.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – MOIRA SHIRE
Moira Shire is located in the north of the region at the border with New South Wales and has a land
area of approximately 4000 square kilometres. The main centre is Cobram, with a population of about
5000 people located approximately 250 kilometres north of Melbourne and 70 kilometres north-west of
Shepparton.
The alluvial floodplains of the Murray, Goulburn and Ovens Rivers make up most of the land area in
the shire, with the majority of the land developed for intensive and extensive agriculture. The Barmah
National Park and Broken Boosey State Park are located in the north and are major features of the
shire.
Areas of significant biodiversity are found across the municipality. The Environmental Significance and
Significant Landscape Overlays control the protection of native vegetation, applying protection to the
environmental values of River Red Gum Wetlands near Cobram and the landscape values of Lake
Mulwala respectively.
9.1 Northern area
The northern boundary of the municipality is established by the Murray River. The river corridor
contains the majority of the Shire’s settlements, including the main centre of Cobram. Bushfire hazard
areas interface directly with these settlements due to their proximity to riparian vegetation along the
Murray River corridor. Areas of vegetation are mapped as being of high or very high conservation
significance.
9.2 Southern area
The southern area of the municipality is primarily made up of modified agricultural landscape and
irrigation channels.
There are a number of rural settlements throughout this region, some of which in the south-east are
located in proximity to identified bushfire hazard. These areas contain vegetation of high or very high
conservation significance.
MOIRA – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
47-001
Barmah
Development pressure is being experienced east of the
Barmah settlement in the bushfire hazard area associated with
the Barmah National Park.
47-002
Bearii
Development pressure is being experienced to the north of the
existing settlement of Beari in proximity to the Murray River
riparian corridor, Barmah National Park and associated
bushfire hazard area.
47-003
Koonoomoo
Development pressure is being experienced north of the
Koonoomoo settlement towards a bushfire hazard area
associated with the riparian corridor along the Murray River.
47-004
Wilby
Rural-residential lots of Wilby settlement are in close proximity
to a bushfire hazard area associated with the riparian corridor
which follows Sandy Creek.
Existing vegetation includes vegetation of high and very high
conservation significance.
47-005
CobramYarrawonga
Development pressure is being experienced along the Murray
River corridor between Cobram and Yarrawonga, alongside
riparian vegetation of the Murray River corridor and associated
bushfire hazard area.
20
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
47-006
Yarrawonga
Interface area to the west and north-west of Yarrawonga in
proximity to bushfire hazard associated with the Murray River
riparian corridor. The land in the area includes a combination
of urban, low density and rural living environments at the
periphery of the township.
47-007
Bundalong
Residential and rural-residential lots in and surrounding
Bundalong are in proximity to a bushfire hazard area
associated with the Murray River riparian corridor.
47-008
Cobram
Residential lots in the township of Cobram are in proximity to
the Murray River riparian corridor and associated bushfire
hazard area.
47-009
Barmah
Residential and small rural-residential lots in and surrounding
the Barmah settlement are in proximity to the Barmah National
Park and associated bushfire hazard area to the north-east
and south.
47-010
Cobram
North eastern boundary of Cobram interfaces with bushfire
hazard associated with the riparian corridor along the Murray
River.
47-011
Barmah
Northern boundary of the Barmah settlement and surrounds
interfaces with the Barmah National Park and associated
bushfire hazard.
47-012
Lake Rowan
Cluster of rural-residential lots of Lake Rowan in close
proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated with the
riparian corridor of Boosey Creek.
Existing vegetation includes vegetation of high and very high
conservation significance.
10.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – MURRINDINDI SHIRE
Murrindindi Shire is located in the south portion of the Hume region and has an area of about 3900
square kilometres. It has a population of about 13 500 located throughout a range of towns, villages
and rural settlements. The main urban centres of the municipality are Alexandra and Yea. The lower
reaches of the Shire around Kinglake and Flowerdale are in commuting distance of Melbourne and are
in a vegetated environment. Access into the municipality is via the Melba, Goulburn Valley and Hume
Highways.
The main land use is agricultural, with sheep, beef cattle and cropping in the northern and western
parts of the Shire. Tourism is focused around the Great Dividing Range in the southern and eastern
parts of the Shire where the landscape is environmentally significant. The northern and western parts
of the Shire generally contain open grassland with scattered woodland areas and pine plantations.
Woodlands in these areas are fragmented and depleted, largely limited to road reserves and
watercourses. The southern and eastern parts of the municipality are characterised by densely
vegetated slopes and valleys of the Great Dividing Range extending across the municipality.
Areas of significant biodiversity are contained in parts of the Toolangi Black Range State Forest,
Rubicon State Forest, Tallarook State Forest, Mount Disappointment and Mount Robertson State
Forests, the Kinglake National Park, the Cathedral Range State Park, Yarra Ranges National Park,
Rubicon Valley Historic Area, and the Lake Eildon National Park. The protection of native vegetation is
managed through the Erosion Management, Environmental Significance, Significant Landscape and
Vegetation Protection Overlays. These apply to numerous watercourses, water supply catchments,
landscapes and remnant vegetation in the municipality.
21
10.1 Northern area
The northern area of the municipality contains the townships of Yea, Alexandra, Molesworth and
Eildon. Settlements are located along the Goulburn River and Melba Highway, and in the Goulburn
Valley. These settlements contain small residential and rural-residential lots which directly interface
with bushfire hazard areas.
Settlements adjoining the Eildon State Park are surrounded by vegetation of high and very high
conservation significance. These townships have a direct interface with bushfire hazards in vegetated
areas. Areas to the north of these townships (except for Eildon) are largely open grassland and are
devoid of woodland or forest vegetation.
10.2 Southern area
The southern area of the municipality is dominated by the Great Dividing Range and its associated
vegetation coverage, steep topography and valleys. The area contains many small towns and villages
including scattered rural settlements in the valleys and on the slopes directly interfacing with bushfire
hazard. This area of the municipality contains many of the townships affected during the Black
Saturday fires, including Marysville, Kinglake, Narbethong, Strath Creek, Flowerdale and Kinglake.
Settlements in the Great Dividing Range are surrounded by vegetation of high and very high
conservation significance. These townships contain a direct interface with bushfire hazard. Other
settlements are located in valleys and contain lots in a vegetated landscape.
MURRINDINDI – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
55-001
Marysville
The township of Marysville is located in the bushfire hazard
area associated with the surrounding Toolangi Black Range
State Forest.
Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very high
conservation significance.
55-002
Marysville
Cluster of undeveloped rural-residential lots to the south-west
of Marysville in a bushfire hazard area. The area interfaces
directly with Toolangi Black Range State Forest and Cathedral
Range State Park. Existing vegetation includes areas of high
and very high conservation significance.
55-003
Granton
Cluster of small lots in a bushfire hazard area. Lots are largely
undeveloped and heavily vegetated. The settlement is
surrounded by state forest. Existing vegetation includes areas
of high and very high conservation significance.
55-004
Narbethong
Cluster of small rural lots to the north of Narbethong with a
direct interface to a bushfire hazard area. Existing vegetation
includes areas of high and very high conservation significance.
55-005
Narbethong
Narbethong consists of a cluster of rural-residential lots in a
bushfire hazard area. Further subdivision and development
potential exists in the Township Zone. Existing vegetation
includes areas of high and very high conservation significance.
55-006
Eildon
Cluster of rural-residential lots to the north-east of Eildon
surrounded by vegetation associated with the Lake Eildon
National Park. Lots also have a direct interface with scattered
remnant vegetation patches.
55-007
Snobs Creek
Cluster of residential and rural-residential lots in proximity to
bushfire hazard areas associated with remnant vegetation
patches and riparian corridors.
22
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
55-008
Taylor Bay
Cluster of small rural-residential lots surrounded by vegetation
associated with the Lake Eildon National Park. Dwellings also
have direct interfaces with riparian and scattered vegetation.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
55-009
Alexandra
Grasslands in the area surrounding Alexandra and riparian
vegetation to the south-west are a known bushfire hazard.
55-010
Molesworth
Cluster of small rural-residential lots at Molesworth are in and
in proximity to a bushfire hazard area. The settlement
interfaces with riparian and scattered vegetation.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
55-011
Yea
Residential lots in the north-east of Yea are in proximity to the
Yea Wetlands.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
55-012
Strath Creek
Development pressure is being experienced to the west of
Strath Creek in a bushfire hazard area. Lots are largely
undeveloped with direct interfaces to scattered remnant
vegetation, state forest and grasslands.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
55-013
Strath Creek
Rural-residential lots at Strath Creek are in and in close
proximity to a bushfire hazard area associated with
grasslands, scattered remnant vegetation and state forest and
to the south and south-west.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
55-014
Flowerdale (north)
Cluster of small rural and rural–residential lots in and in close
proximity to bushfire hazard area associated with scattered
remnant and riparian vegetation, state forest and grasslands.
Lots are largely undeveloped.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
55-015
Hazeldene
Clusters of small residential lots along Whittlesea-Yea Road,
including Hazeldene. The settlements are surrounded by the
bushfire hazard area associated with the Kinglake National
Park and state forest.
Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very high
conservation significance.
55-016
Kinglake West
Kinglake West consists of small residential lots surrounded by
vegetation associated with the Kinglake National Park and
state forest. A number of residential lots are also vegetated.
23
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
55-017
Pheasant Creek /
Includes a dispersed rural-residential lot pattern with large lots
Kinglake / Toolangi generally in excess of four hectares with dwelling development
adjacent to and set in bushfire hazard.
The area extends between Kinglake West and Toolangi and
includes lots which rely on single access roads. Lots interface
with state forest and the Kinglake National Park.
Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very high
conservation significance.
55-018
Kinglake Central
Residential lots in Kinglake Central have a direct interface to a
bushfire hazard area. The settlement is surrounded by
vegetation associated with the Kinglake National Park and
state forest. A number of residential lots are also vegetated.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
55-019
Marysville /
Taggerty locality
Area is of interest to strategic planning and includes a
dispersed rural-residential lot pattern with large lots generally
in excess of four hectares with dwelling development adjacent
to and in bushfire hazard.
Settlements have direct interface with bushfire hazard areas
associated with the state forest and the Toolangi Black Range
State Forest.
Existing vegetation includes areas of vegetation of high and
very high conservation significance.
Development pressure is being experienced in proximity to
bushfire hazard areas on all interfaces.
55-020
Buxton
Cluster of rural-residential lots to the south of Buxton with
further development potential and in a bushfire hazard area.
Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very high
conservation significance.
55-021
Toolangi
.
Residential lots at Toolangi are surrounded by dense
vegetation associated with the Kinglake National Park,
Toolangi Black Range State Forest, remnant vegetation and
associated bushfire hazard areas. A number of the lots are
also vegetated. Existing vegetation includes areas of high and
very high conservation significance.
55-022
Castella
Cluster of medium rural-residential lots with a direct interface
to a bushfire hazard area. The settlement includes vegetated
lots and is surrounded by vegetation associated with the
Kinglake National Park and Toolangi Black Range State
Forest. Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very
high conservation significance.
55-023
Taggerty
Residential lots in the township of Taggerty are in proximity to
the bushfire hazard areas associated with scattered remnant
vegetation patches and Cathedral Range State Park. Existing
vegetation includes areas of high and very high conservation
significance.
55-024
Buxton
Residential lots in the township of Buxton and associated
rural-residential lots are in the bushfire hazard area of the
surrounding remnant vegetation patches and Cathedral Range
State Park. Existing vegetation includes areas of high and very
high conservation significance.
24
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
55-025
Eildon
Northern boundary of Eildon interfaces with Lake Eildon
National Park and associated bushfire hazard areas.
55-026
Kinglake Central
Eastern and south-eastern boundaries of Kinglake Central
interface with the Kinglake National Park and bushfire hazard
areas.
55-027
Hazeldene
Residential clusters rely on Whittlesea-Yea Road for access
and egress from a bushfire hazard area.
55-028
Kinglake West
Multiple clusters of dwellings rely on single constructed roads
for access and egress from bushfire hazard areas.
55-029
Taylor Bay
Cluster of rural-residential dwellings at Taylor Bay rely on a
single road for access and egress from a bushfire hazard
area.
55-030
Hazeldene
Silver Creek Road is the only access and egress point for a
cluster of rural-residential lots in a bushfire hazard area.
55-031
Hazeldene
Long Gully Road is a single access road for a cluster of ruralresidential lots in a bushfire hazard area.
11.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – SHIRE OF STRATHBOGIE
The Shire of Strathbogie is located in the east of the region and has an area of about 3300 square
kilometres. It has a population of about 10 000 located in towns such as Euroa, Nagambie, Violet
Town, Avenel, Longwood, Ruffy and Strathbogie. There are also a large number of settlements
located in farming land scattered throughout the municipality.
Both the Hume Freeway and the Goulburn Valley Highway traverse the Shire. The predominant land
use is agriculture, including wool, grain and cattle production, extensive vineyards at Nagambie and
throughout the Strathbogie Ranges and a wide range of intensive cool climate horticultural
enterprises.
The Shire is home to the Heathcote-Graytown National Park. The Goulburn River also passes through
the Shire and includes both Lake Nagambie and the Goulburn Weir. To the north-west of the Hume
Highway there are extensive areas of native vegetation in private land, along road reserves and
watercourses, interspersed with scattered pockets of open grassland in a relatively flat landscape. To
the south-east of the Hume Highway, the topography is steeper and undulating with scattered and
fragmented woodlands as part of the Strathbogie Ranges.
The protection of native vegetation to the south of the Hume Highway is managed through the Erosion
Management Overlay, which applies to much of the Strathbogie Ranges. Land to the north of the
Hume Highway is characterised by Ironbark forests. These forests have high biodiversity values
characterised by soil types prone to erosion.
11.1 Western area
The western area of the municipality, to the west of the Goulburn Valley Highway, contains the
Goulburn River and Weir, Heathcote-Graytown National Park, numerous Box-Ironbark forested areas
and open grasslands. Settlements are often located on the fringes of these areas and contain small
residential or rural-residential lots which interface with vegetated bushfire hazard areas.
Settlements adjoining the Box-Ironbark forests are surrounded by vegetation of high and very high
conservation significance. These settlements contain a direct interface with the bushfire hazard. Other
settlements are surrounded by the forest and contain lots in a vegetated landscape of high biodiversity
value. Many of the settlements contain single roads as the primary access to dwellings.
25
11.2 Central area
The central area of the municipality, between the Goulburn Valley Highway and Hume Highway,
contains farmland with open woodland. Most of the area is dominated by large rural lot subdivisions
however some settlements in the region are surrounded by the forest and contain small lots in a
vegetated landscape. These areas are of high or very high conservation significance. Clusters of small
rural-residential lots in this area are located in areas susceptible to bushfire.
11.3 Eastern area
The eastern area of the municipality, located to the east of the Hume Highway, is at the foothills of and
in the Strathbogie Ranges. It contains extensive woodland environments that create a bushfire hazard
for townships and settlements in the area. Surrounding vegetation is of high and very high
conservation significance.
Settlements are located on the fringes of these areas and contain small residential and ruralresidential lots interfacing with vegetated bushfire hazard areas. Other settlements are surrounded by
woodlands and contain small lots located in a vegetated landscape. Settlements in the area have
single access arrangements in bushfire hazard areas.
STRATHBOGIE – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
64-001
Tames Road,
Strathbogie
Cluster of medium rural-residential lots, developed and
undeveloped, in a bushfire hazard area.
64-002
Strathbogie (east)
Cluster of larger rural-residential lots in proximity to a bushfire
hazard area. Land is currently in the Farming Zone. The
Strathbogie Rural Residential Strategy identifies the land as
suitable for rezoning to Rural Living.
64-003
Strathbogie
(south), north of
Polly McQuinns
Road
Cluster of larger rural-residential lots in and in close proximity
to a bushfire hazard area. Land is currently in the Farming
Zone. The Strathbogie Rural Residential Strategy identifies the
land as suitable for rezoning to Rural Living. Bushfire hazard is
associated with vegetated land to the west.
64-004
Strathbogie (north) Cluster of larger rural-residential lots in or in close proximity to
a bushfire hazard area. Land is currently in the Farming Zone.
The Strathbogie Rural Residential Strategy identifies the land
as suitable for rezoning to Rural Living.
64-005
Gooram
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and consists of larger
lots used for rural-residential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural
Residential Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning
to Rural Living. The area interfaces with bushfire hazard
associated with pine plantations.
64-006
Euroa-Mansfield
Road / Galls Gap
Road
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and consists of larger
lots used for rural-residential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural
Residential Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning
to Rural Living. A known grassland bushfire hazard area exists
to the east.
64-007
Kelvin View
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and consists of larger
lots used for rural-residential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural
Residential Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning
to Rural Living.
Eastern, southern and western boundaries of the area with
bushfire hazard associated with the Mount Wombat Flora and
Fauna Reserve.
26
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
64-008
Creightons Creek
Road, Creightons
Creek
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and consists of larger
lots used for rural-residential purposes. It is in and in proximity
to the bushfire hazard area associated with adjoining remnant
vegetation. The Strathbogie Rural Residential Strategy
identifies the land as suitable for rezoning to Rural Living.
64-009
Ruffy
Land in Ruffy is currently in the Farming Zone and used for
rural-residential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural Residential
Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning to Rural
Living.
64-010
Longwood-Ruffey
Road, Longwood
East
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and consists of larger
lots used for rural-residential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural
Residential Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning
to Rural Living.
64-011
Hume Freeway,
Longwood
Cluster of small rural lots in a bushfire hazard area of the
forest to the south. The dwellings are located in the historic
Longwood East subdivision, which provides a township lot
layout in the Farming Zone. The majority of lots are
undeveloped.
64-012
Longwood
Wooded forest surrounding Longwood and grasslands to the
south-east are a known bushfire hazard to the township.
64-013
Ruffy
Mixture of developed and undeveloped small lots in Ruffy
currently in the Farming Zone and used for rural-residential
purposes.
Future growth is anticipated in Ruffy.
64-014
Euroa-Mansfield
Road, Euroa
Development pressure is being experienced south of Euroa
towards a bushfire hazard area to the south. Land is currently
in the Farming Zone and used for rural-residential purposes.
The Strathbogie Rural Residential Strategy identifies the land
as suitable for rezoning to Rural Living.
64-015
Avenel
Grasslands surrounding the township of Avenel are a known
bushfire hazard.
64-016
Kirwans Bridge
Small lots in Kirwans Bridge in proximity to bushfire hazard
area.
64-017
NagambieLocksley Road,
Nagambie
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and used for ruralresidential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural Residential
Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning to Rural
Living.
64-018
Goulburn Weir
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and used for ruralresidential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural Residential
Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning to Rural
Living.
64-019
Kirwans Bridge
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and used for ruralresidential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural Residential
Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning to Rural
Living. Grasslands to the north-west of this area present a
bushfire hazard.
27
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
64-020
North of Reedy
Lake
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and includes larger lots
used for rural-residential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural
Residential Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning
to Rural Living.
The area is in proximity to bushfire hazard associated with
vegetation to the north and south. Grasslands to the east and
west are also a known bushfire hazard.
64-021
Bailieston
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and includes larger lots
used for rural-residential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural
Residential Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning
to Rural Living. The area has a direct interface to a bushfire
hazard area to the north and west associated with the
Heathcote-Graytown National Park. Includes vegetation of
high and very high conservation significance
64-022
Bailieston
Cluster of rural-residential lots to the west of Nagambie
adjoining the Heathcote-Graytown National Park and
associated bushfire hazard area. Lots, including those that
have been developed with dwellings, are vegetated.
64-023
HeathcoteNagambie Road,
Costerfield
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and consists of a
number of larger lots used primarily for rural-residential
purposes. It adjoins the Heathcote-Graytown National Park to
the west, and is in the associated bushfire hazard area.
The Strathbogie Rural Residential Strategy identifies the land
as suitable for rezoning to Rural Living.
64-024
Vickers Road,
Wirrate
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and includes larger lots
used for rural-residential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural
Residential Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning
to Rural Living. The area is in a bushfire hazard area
associated with remnant vegetated in and adjoining the area.
64-025
Moormbool West
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and used for ruralresidential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural Residential
Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning to Rural
Living. The area interfaces with a bushfire hazard area to the
west, north and south-east associated with the HeathcoteGraytown National Park and Rushworth Forest Reference
Area.
64-026
Mitchellstown
Land is currently in the Farming Zone and used for ruralresidential purposes. The Strathbogie Rural Residential
Strategy identifies the land as suitable for rezoning to Rural
Living. The area is in a bushfire hazard area associated with
remnant vegetation in and adjoining the area.
64-027
South of
HeathcoteNagambie Road
Development pressure for rural infill is being experienced
towards a bushfire hazard area at the periphery of existing
development.
64-028
Strathbogie
Residential lots in the township of Strathbogie are in proximity
to bushfire hazard area to the south-west.
28
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
64-029
Graytown
Historic Graytown subdivision pattern provides township lot
layout in the Farming Zone. The majority of lots are vegetated
and undeveloped and if developed require compliance with
Farming Zone land use requirements.
The area is surrounded by the Heathcote-Graytown National
Park and Rushworth Forest Reference Area.
64-030
Euroa (east)
Grasslands to the south-east of Euroa are a known bushfire
hazard.
64-031
Goulburn Weir
Small lots between the Goulburn Weir and Goulburn River
associated with bushfire hazard.
64-032
South of
HeathcoteNagambie Road
Cluster of rural-residential lots in proximity to bushfire hazard
area associated with nearby remnant vegetation, including on
the Commonwealth land at Puckapunyal to the south.
12.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – TOWONG SHIRE
Towong Shire is located in the north-east of the region and has a land area of about 6673 square
kilometres. It has a population of about 6350, primarily located in rural settlements. The main centre is
Corryong, with a population of approximately 1150 located approximately 350 kilometres north-east of
Melbourne and 122 kilometres north-east of Wodonga.
The shire is characterised by the mountainous landscape of the Alpine National Park and Kosciusko
alpine region. Approximately 70% of the Shire is public land, including the Alpine and Burrowa – Pine
Mountain National Parks and the Mount Lawson State Park. The shire is one of the most productive
agricultural areas in the Ovens and Murray region of Victoria. Timber production is also a major land
use.
Areas of significant biodiversity are located throughout the municipality, predominantly adjacent to
national and state parks, as well as along watercourses and road reserves. The protection of native
vegetation is partly managed through the Environmental Significance and Significant Landscape
Overlays, which apply to high quality vegetation including the Lake Hume environs.
12.1 North western area
The north-western area of the municipality includes settlements with some potential for future
development in proximity to a bushfire hazard area. In some instances, settlements also contain
vegetation and interface with bushfire hazard areas of high and very high conservation significance.
Some settlements are surrounded by Mount Lawson State Park and land used for timber plantations.
These settlements have a direct interface with bushfire hazard areas.
12.2 South western area
The south-western area of the municipality includes the small settlements surrounded by the Alpine
National Park and state forest with vegetation of high or very high conservation significance. These
settlements have a direct interface with identified bushfire hazard on most of their boundaries, and are
serviced by single access roads.
12.3 Eastern area
The eastern area of the municipality includes a mix of small settlements both removed from and in
proximity to identified bushfire hazard areas. Development pressure is experienced in settlements
where there are undeveloped lots and potential for rezoning. An area in this locality has been
identified for future development. These areas are surrounded by vegetation of high or very high
conservation significance. Single access roads service some settlements.
29
TOWONG – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
67-001
Dartmouth
Residential lots in the township of Dartmouth are surrounded
by state park and associated bushfire hazard area.
Existing vegetation surrounding the settlement includes areas
of high and very high conservation significance.
67-002
Eskdale
Cluster of small lots in the Eskdale township and surrounds
are in proximity to bushfire hazard area associated with
nearby forest landscape.
Existing vegetation surrounding the settlement includes
vegetation of high and very high conservation significance.
67-003
CorryongCudgewa
Strategic direction for residential development has been
identified for rural living between Corryong and Cudgewa,
north of the Murray Valley Highway, in proximity to a bushfire
hazard area.
Northern edge of Corryong interfaces with bushfire hazard
area including grasslands.
67-004
Mitta Mitta
Residential lots in and around Mitta Mitta are in and in
proximity to bushfire hazard area associated with nearby
remnant vegetation.
Existing vegetation surrounding the settlement includes
vegetation of high and very high conservation significance.
67-005
Thowgla Valley
Rural-residential lots in Thowgla Valley have an interface with
remnant vegetation and associated bushfire hazard.
67-006
Cudgewa
Development pressure is being experienced in and
surrounding Cudgewa. The area includes undeveloped lots
and potential for rezoning of land towards remnant vegetation
and associated bushfire hazard area.
67-007
Walwa
Small lots in Walwa settlement and surrounds. Includes
scattered remnant vegetation and bushfire hazard.
67-008
Nariel Creek
Cluster of rural-residential lots north of Nariel Creek along
Benambra-Corryong Road is surrounded by state park and
associated bushfire hazard area.
67-009
Thowgla Valley
Single constructed road, Thowgla Road, provides sole access
for a cluster of dwellings in a bushfire hazard area.
67-010
Nariel Creek
Single road, Benambra-Corryong Road, services cluster of
dwellings in a bushfire hazard area.
67-011
Towong
Residential lots in the township of Towong, including some
undeveloped lots, are in proximity to remnant vegetation to the
south-east, and the associated bushfire hazard area including
riparian river-corridor vegetation.
67-012
Walwa
Cluster of rural-residential lots between Walwa and Jingellic,
along the Murray River Road. This area is in proximity to a
bushfire hazard area to the west.
67-013
Koetong
Cluster of rural-residential dwellings in the historic subdivision
pattern for the township of Koetong. The lots are in and in
proximity to the bushfire hazard area associated with
surrounding vegetation, including plantations.
30
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
67-014
Granya
Strategic directions identify potential growth east of the
Granya settlement, towards a bushfire hazard area.
67-015
Granya
Cluster of small rural-residential lots in the Granya settlement
and surrounds. This area is in proximity to a bushfire hazard
area associated with the surrounding Mount Grayna State
Park and some plantations.
67-016
Dartmouth
Single constructed road, Dartmouth Road, servicing the
Dartmouth settlement and surrounds.
67-017
Mitta Mitta
Single access road servicing settlements in Mitta Mitta and
Eskdale (Omeo Highway).
13.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – RURAL CITY OF WANGARATTA
The Rural City of Wangaratta is located in the north-east of the region and has a land area of
approximately 3800 square kilometres. The municipality has a population of approximately 28 900
people. The main centre of Wangaratta, with a population of 16 749 is located approximately 250
kilometres north-east of Melbourne and 40 kilometres north of Benalla.
The south of the City is defined by the Alpine National Park and foothills of the Great Dividing Range.
The fertile river valleys of the Ovens and King Rivers extend north. The main land uses in the
municipality relate to agriculture, including traditional cattle and sheep grazing operations and more
recent viticulture enterprises. The agricultural landscape is dotted with rural-residential settlements.
Areas of significant biodiversity are common throughout the municipality and contained in large
patches, road reserves and watercourses. Native vegetation clearance is managed through the
Vegetation Protection and Significant Landscape Overlays which apply to the protection of township
vegetation, roadsides and the significant landscape of the Warby Ranges.
13.1 Northern area
The northern part of the municipality contains the major centre of Wangaratta. Future development in
this area is planned to occur to the north, north-west and southern parts of the existing urban area.
Development pressure is also being experienced adjacent to the Warby Ranges National Park. This
situation is also present to the north-east, adjacent to established state parks where settlements have
a direct interface with vegetated bushfire hazard areas. Settlements in the region are surrounded by
vegetation of high and very high conservation significance.
13.2 Southern Section
The southern area of the municipality is largely made up of public land; predominantly the Alpine
National Park. A valley running north to south traverses the national park which contains rural, rural
living and tourism activities. This area has been identified for the potential to contain residential
development in a Rural Activity Zone land use context and tourism growth in the City’s rural land use
strategy. Development pressure is being experienced in this area.
The region is serviced by the Wangaratta-Mansfield Road, which follows the base of the valley, with
smaller roads stretching up into the hills. Vegetation of high or very high conservation significance is
present in the area. Significant biodiversity values are located in and adjacent to the national park, as
well as scattered throughout the valley.
WANGARATTA – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
68-001
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
Peechelba,
Killawarra,
Wangandary and
Wangarratta South
Development pressure is being experienced extending from
Peechelba, Killawarra, Wangandary and Wangaratta South, to
the north and west of the Wangaratta township towards the
Warby Ranges and associated bushfire hazard area.
31
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
68-002
Wangaratta South
Cluster of rural-residential lots surrounding Cox Road, in and
adjacent to scattered remnant vegetation and associated
bushfire hazard area.
68-003
Wangaratta
Riparian corridors following creek alignments in Wangaratta
settlement are known bushfire hazards.
68-004
Peechelba
Cluster of residential lots of Peechelba township are in
proximity to remnant vegetation to the east and south-west,
and associated bushfire hazard area.
68-005
Markwood
Single constructed road (Glenrowan-Myrtleford Road)
extending north and south servicing dwellings and area
experiencing development pressure.
68-006
Glenrowan
Cluster of small residential and rural-residential lots in and
surrounding the Glenrowan township are in the bushfire
hazard area associated with remnant vegetation to the northeast of the settlement.
68-007
Moyhu to
Cheshunt
Development pressure is being experienced in this area to the
east and west of Wangaratta-Whitfield Road and MansfieldWhitfield Road between Moyhu and Cheshunt. This area is in
proximity to a forested environment and associated bushfire
hazard area. There is limited accessibility in some sections of
the area.
68-008
Rose River
.
Rural-residential lots with further development pressure in the
Rose River valley being experienced. This area has a direct
interface with remnant vegetation and associated bushfire
hazard area.
68-009
Cheshunt
Cluster of residential lots in and surrounding the Cheshunt
township in proximity to remnant vegetation located in forested
landscape and associated bushfire hazard.
68-010
Everton Upper
Small lots in Everton upper, an area in close proximity to
remnant vegetation and bushfire hazard area.
68-011
Everton Upper
Development pressure is being experienced in Everton Upper,
adjacent to White Post Road. This area is in close proximity to
remnant vegetation and a bushfire hazard area.
68-012
Markwood
Development pressure is being experienced between
Markwood and Whorouly Road along the GlenrowanMyrtleford Road. This area is in proximity to remnant
vegetation and associated bushfire hazard area.
68-013
Eldorado
Residential and rural-residential lots in and around the
township of Eldorado are in close proximity to remnant
vegetation to the east and the associated bushfire hazard area
associated with Chiltern Mt Pilot National Park.
68-014
Wangaratta South
Single constructed road (Shanley Street) extending east from
Coz Road, servicing cluster of dwellings.
68-015
Wangandary
Single constructed road extending south-east (WangarrataThoona Road) servicing dwellings and area experiencing
development pressure.
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IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
68-016
Waldara
Wangaratta Planning Scheme provides for extension of the
Wangaratta township around Waldara. This area is in
proximity to a bushfire hazard area.
68-017
Peechelba
North east boundary of Peechelba interfaces with remnant
vegetation bushfire hazard.
68-018
Glenrowan
Western boundary of the Glenrowan settlement interfaces with
remnant vegetation and associated bushfire hazard.
68-019
Markwood
Medium rural-residential lots, surrounded by development
pressure. This area is in proximity to remnant vegetation and
associated bushfire hazard area.
68-020
Eldorado
North east boundary of the Eldorado settlement and surrounds
interfaces with remnant vegetation and a bushfire hazard area.
68-021
Cheshunt
Upper King River Road, a single dirt access road, extends
north towards Cheshunt, servicing dwellings.
68-022
Moyhu
Cluster of small lots towards Moyhuz in proximity to bushfire
hazard.
68-023
Moyhu
Single constructed road (Wangaratta-Whitfield Road)
extending north towards Moyhu services dwellings and area of
potential development.
14.0 MUNICIPAL OVERVIEW – CITY OF WODONGA
The City of Wodonga is located in the north-east of the region and has a land area of about 430
square kilometres. It has a population of about 36 400 mostly located in its main centre, Wodonga.
Wodonga is located approximately 300 kilometres north-east of Melbourne and 68 kilometres to the
north of Wangaratta. Wodonga is strategically placed in the context of north-east Victoria and southern
New South Wales. Wodonga provides a sub-regional role for retailing and other services.
Sitting on the intersection of the Murray and Kiewa Rivers, the fertile flats of these rivers dominate the
north of the City. The south and west regions of the municipality are characterised by hilly and short
connected valleys. The Hume Dam is located in the east. The region surrounding Wodonga has an
economy based on beef cattle production, dairying and viticulture.
Areas of significant biodiversity and associated bushfire hazard are found throughout the municipality,
including in areas identified for future settlement, predominantly along watercourses and road
reserves. A combination of Environmental Significance, Significant Landscape and Vegetation
Protection Overlays contribute to the management of native vegetation across the municipality.
14.1 Northern area
The township of Wodonga encompasses much of the northern area of the municipality and its Murray
River frontage. The southern and western township boundaries interface directly with vegetated
hillsides and associated bushfire hazard areas. Development is currently being pursued surrounding
the base of Huon Hill, which contains grassland environments. The area is subject to environmental
planning controls and includes some vegetation of high and very high conservation significance.
14.2 Southern area
The southern area of the municipality includes a strategically identified growth area. This area extends
south-east from the existing township of Wodonga towards a bushfire hazard area and through
vegetation of high and very high conservation significance. The southern area of the municipality also
includes small and rural-residential lots subject to development pressure and in proximity to bushfire
hazard areas.
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WODONGA – IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION TABLE
IDENTIFIED
AREA CODE
LOCATION
IDENTIFIED AREA DESCRIPTION
74-001
Killara
Urban growth approved up to boundary of known grassland
bushfire hazard, adjacent to the existing settlement of Killara,
the Kiewa River and Huon Hill.
Existing vegetation includes vegetation of high and very high
conservation significance.
74-002
Baranduda
Development pressure being experienced to redevelop ruralresidential lots north-east of Baranduda.
74-003
Staghorn Flat
Development pressure is being experienced south of the
Baranduda settlement towards Staghorn Flat. This area
interfaces with remnant vegetation and associated bushfire
hazard area.
74-004
Leneva
Residential lots in and surrounding the existing Leneva
settlement are in proximity to some remnant vegetation and
associated bushfire hazard area.
74-005
Wodonga
Residential lots, west of Yarralumka Drive, are in proximity to
scattered remnant vegetation and a bushfire hazard area to
the south.
74-006
Wodonga
Residential lots north and west of the Wodonga Golf Course,
including some undeveloped, are in proximity to remnant
vegetation and associated bushfire hazard area primarily to
the west.
74-007
Bandiana
Residential lots of Bandiana (north of the Murray Valley
Highway) are in proximity to grassland and associated
bushfire hazard area, Huon Hill.
74-008
Leneva
Strategic direction for residential growth has been identified as
being between existing settlement of Wodonga and Leneva
(south of Boyles Road). The planned growth interfaces with
remnant vegetation and a bushfire hazard area.
74-009
Baranduda
Urban growth identified as a strategic direction south of
Barandunda, west of Yackandandah-Wodonga Road. This
area has interfaces with remnant vegetation and associated
bushfire hazard.
74-010
Leneva
Northern boundary of Leneva located in proximity to remnant
vegetation and associated bushfire hazard area.
74-011
Wodonga
There is a capacity for some minimal urban growth identified
as a strategic direction north-west of Elkington Road, towards
remnant vegetation and associated bushfire hazard area.
74-012
Wodonga
South-west and west boundaries of the existing Wodonga
settlement interface with remnant vegetation and associated
bushfire hazard.
74-013
Staghorn Flat
Medium lots surrounded by development pressure to the
north-west.
74-014
Baranduda
Residential lots in and extending south of Baranduda including
patches of remnant vegetation in proximity to bushfire hazard
area associated with the Baranduda Regional Park to the
west.
34
ISBN 978-1-921940-41-5
Published by the Victorian Government Department of Planning and Community Development
Melbourne, April 2012.
© The State of Victoria Department of Planning and Community Development 2012.
This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with
the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.
Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Spring Street, Melbourne.
This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not
guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular
purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise
from you relying on any information in this publication.
The content of the Regional Bushfire Planning Assessment is provided for information purposes only.
No claim is made as to the accuracy or authenticity of the content. DPCD does not accept any liability
to any person for the information or advice in the RBPA.
www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning
35