Western Edge Volunteer Fire Service

20/09/2026

All issued Fire Permits are now formally cancelled.

Western Downs Regional Council Areas –

No new issue of permits unless approved by the Area Chief Fire Warden – Only permits considered essential for commercial or other purposes will be considered and stringent control measures in place.

All existing permits to be revoked.

If permits are issued this will be with the below conditions after consultation with Area Office in Dalby.

Permits are to be issued only for the minimum time necessary to complete the burn.

- Fires may only be lit between 1700 hrs and 0600 hrs the following day, and only with a valid permit to burn issued by the local Fire Warden after approval from the Chief Fire Warden.
- Minimum water to be on site during burning to be 2,000lts
- A minimum of 4 persons on site to undertake burn.
- A minimum 6-metre bare earth firebreak must be established adjacent to the burn area.
- Wind speed, current and forecast, must not exceed 15 km/h at the time of lighting or for the duration of the burn.
- The burn must be patrolled until it is safe and fully blacked out.
- For larger burns, blackout must extend to 20 metres from the control line or 1.5 times the height of the tallest tree, whichever is greater.


All restrictions will remain in place until such time as weather / conditions improve like rain.

This is not a total fire ban as yet

19/09/2026

🚨 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS ARE HERE PLEASE TAKE IT EASY ON OUR ROADS 🚗

With the school holidays now in effect for the next two weeks, Western Edge Fire Service would like to remind everyone to take extra care when travelling.

Sadly, there have already been two crashes in our region today Our thoughts are with everyone involved, and we hope those affected have the support they need.

These incidents are a reminder of how quickly things can change on our roads and why taking a little extra care can make such a difference.
Please remember The Fatal Five:
🔴 SPEEDING Slow down and drive to the conditions.
🔴 DRINK & DRUG DRIVING Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
🔴 FAILING TO WEAR A SEATBELT Every person, every trip, every time.
🔴 FATIGUE If you're tired, stop and rest. Don't push through.
🔴DISTRACTION Put the phone away and keep your attention on the road.

🛑OUR ADVICE FOR LONG TRIPS:

Please plan your journey and stop at least every 2 hours for 15–20 minutes. Get out, stretch your legs, have some water and give yourself a proper break.

Remember, road conditions can change quickly. Drive to the conditions and allow extra time for your journey.

❤️ Take your time. Look after each other. Arrive safely.

From everyone at Western Edge Fire Service , we wish everyone a safe and enjoyable school holiday period.

🚒 Please slow down. Stay alert. Get home safely.

Send a message to learn more

11/09/2026

🔥 OFFICIAL NOTICE – SUSPENSION OF PERMITS TO LIGHT FIRE
Western Edge Fire Service wishes to advise our clients, members and the wider community that, following the official notice issued by Queensland Fire Department – Rural Fire Service Queensland, **all permits to light fires within the affected Darling Downs Fire Warden District areas are suspended from 0001hrs Friday 12 September 2026 until 2359hrs Monday 21 September 2026, unless otherwise notified.
This decision has been made due to current and forecast weather conditions and the associated fire danger.
Western Edge Fire Service fully supports this direction and stands ready to assist and support our partner agencies, emergency services and the communities we operate within.
🔥 Please be advised:
Any planned burns booked through Western Edge Fire Service during the suspension period will be rescheduled to a suitable date once conditions and restrictions allow.
Any existing fire permits affected by the suspension are suspended and must not be acted upon during this period.
We ask everyone to comply with the current restrictions and avoid any unauthorised or unsafe burning.
Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.
We thank everyone for their cooperation and understanding as we work together with Queensland Fire Department, Rural Fire Service Queensland and our fellow emergency service agencies to keep our communities safe.
Western Edge Fire Service
Ready to support our partners. Ready to support our community.🚒🔥

Send a message to learn more

04/09/2026

Western Edge Volunteer Fire Service would like to advise we are under new management with Lukas Waters as the new owner and 1st Officer.

I have made the decision to step back and hand the reins over to Lukas. My role now will be control burn inspections and working with the fire wardens so people are fully informed about their burn.

As part of the new structure and strategy of our services we will be offering our services to the local earth movers so we can have a good working commitment with them.

So again please welcome Lukas, also Andrew Hogan is still the media officer. Both Lukas and Andrew can be contacted via their emails, [email protected] and [email protected]

So stay tuned for more exciting news 😀

06/08/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JG7AkUwGs/

Australia faces bushfire risks every year, with communities, wildlife, and homes often affected by extreme fire seasons. Some believe investing more in prevention—such as controlled burns, firebreaks, vegetation management, and improved emergency preparedness—could reduce the impact of future bushfires. Others argue resources should be balanced across prevention, response, recovery, and other national priorities.

Should Australia invest more in bushfire prevention? 🇦🇺🔥

👍 YES or 👎 NO — Share your opinion and explain why in the comments!

05/08/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CD6p6xC62/

05/08/2026

🇦🇺 It also helps to have your house/property number marked clearly on your gate post or letter box so we can find you faster. 🚒

05/08/2026

Local landowner is performing hazard reduction burn (country) near Kogan Tara Rd/Kerrs Rd Kogan.
Please close your windows and doors, keep your respiratory medication close by if you are affected.
Smoke can decrease visibility, so motorists should drive with caution and to conditions.

22/07/2026

13/07/2026

Questions about AusAlert? We might have the answer you’re looking for! 👀📱

AusAlert is Australia’s new national warning system. It’s a fast and reliable way to help people be informed and better prepared during emergencies.

On Monday 27 July 2026 at around 2pm AEST, a national test of AusAlert will happen. During the test, all compatible mobile devices in Australia will be sent a Critical Alert at the same time.

Learn what AusAlert is, how it works, and what to expect during the national test at the link in our comments. 👇