FOLLOWING 45 header fires during harvest season in the far north-west of Victoria, fire authorities are reminding grain growers to make machinery maintenance and hygiene a priority.
While fires in cropping paddocks during harvest have long been part of Mallee farming, occurring at a frequency higher than elsewhere in Victoria, on average CFA fights more than 200 header and harvest-related fires across the state each year.
A report by CFA District 18 found fires were spanning up to 535 hectares, needing attention from 737 volunteers, 169 CFA vehicles and 16 aircraft for support.
District 18 assistant chief fire officer Gavin Wright said interviews with incident controllers and grain growers had explored factors that led to ignitions, in conjunction with local factors such as extreme heat, wind and dust.
“Each year we see a similar pattern of ignition, with header hygiene a main cause, where chaff, dust and residue build-up around the exhaust system and cause concern,” Mr Wright said.
“Bearing collapse or seizing of bearings also plays a large role and annual replacement is strongly suggested, as is the use of an infra-red thermometer to detect failure early.
“Often a piece of wire or a stone may get stuck in the back rotary beater or in the seed destructor too, and header pullies can be overtightened and overheat.
“We suggest a qualified header mechanic should conduct all repairs and that farmers use a high-capacity air compressor to blow down the header regularly.”
While fires can occur even after the most stringent controls, it is important ignitions do not occur during periods of elevated fire danger.
“As a farming community, we understand the decision to cease harvesting activities is not a simple one, with grain growers relying on the brief window of time they have alongside weather and financial pressures,” Mr Wright said.
“However, be aware of any known risks or idiosyncrasies in your machinery that may increase the risk of fire and ensure you are carrying a method of water extinguishment at all times.”
Farmers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the harvest pre-season checklist at cfa.vic.gov.au/harvest
