West Wimmera Action Group has called for improvements to fire preparedness,  communications and recognition of local responders following the Grass Flat fire in January.

WWAG has released the Grass Flat, Natimuk, Quantong Fire Report, a locally compiled snapshot of the impacts of the fast-moving fire, which started at Grass Flat on January 9, and affected residents, businesses and farms across the Natimuk and Quantong districts. 

Based on survey responses from 37 community members, the report documents the scale of volunteer-effort, property and infrastructure impacts, and the ongoing mental and social toll on the region. 

WWAG secretary Jennifer Goldsworthy said the report also compiled community feedback on opportunities to strengthen future fire readiness, including improved fuel-load management on public land and along roadsides, and more reliable communications.

The report also details the need for better back-up systems, better access to refill water points, clearer co-ordination across agencies, and greater recognition of the contribution made by volunteers and local private firefighting units. 

“This booklet tells the story from a local point of view, focusing on the impact the fire had on the  local residents, the Natimuk and Quantong townships and the social fabric and mental health in  this region” she said.

“It highlights not only the extraordinary local contribution to firefighting and recovery, but also  practical steps that could improve preparedness and reduce harm when catastrophic conditions occur again.” 

A similar report was published about the Little Desert Fire in 2025, and both are available in digital form – people can email wwag2025@gmail.com for a copy.

Ms Goldsworthy said the booklets were instrumental in WWAG securing regular meetings with CFA, DEECA and FFMV as well as getting a seat at the table during the bushfire inquiry at Quantong on April 22.

A copy of the Grass Flat, Natimuk, Quantong fire booklet was presented to shadow minister for public land management Melina Bath, one of the committee members at the inquiry.

Ms Goldsworthy said WWAG was available to discuss the findings with community members, emergency management stakeholders and decision-makers. 

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