The Andrews Labor Government is improving conditions for fire lookout observers by upgrading Mt Tarrengower Lookout tower.

Minister for Environment Lily D’Ambrosio joined Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards at the lookout today to get an update on the progress of works at the Tower and its fire observer cabin.

Works on the tower began in early June to ensure the new fire tower observer cabin meets current health and safety standards as well as boosting amenity and safety for visitors.

The new cabin will improve working conditions for the fire tower observer, who can spend up to 10 hours a day in the cabin.

As well as replacing the cabin, the timber decking on the viewing platforms has been removed, some structural repairs have been completed and most of the old lead-based paint on the legs of the tower has been shot-blasted.

Once all the paint and rust are removed, the tower will be repainted with zinc enriched primer and a top coat that will last around 25 years.

As the area is a construction site, the tower is closed to visitors throughout the upgrade.

Work on the top part of the tower and on the cabin is the top priority to have it operational in time for summer. The new fire cabin is expected to be ready to be in place in mid-October and the rest of the tower by December, depending on weather conditions.

The Mt Tarrengower fire tower is one of 66 in a network of Forest Fire Management Victoria managed fire towers across the state and is part of a state-wide upgrade of the fire tower network.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“Mt Tarrengower tower protects the community by providing the early detection of bushfires and a better picture of fire behaviour.”

“The new fire tower cabin will be a safer, more comfortable place for the observer – who can spend up to 10 hours a day there in summer.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards

“This upgrade is running on time and will ensure our local landmark is fit for visitors for the years to come.”

“We know that Mt Tarrengower Tower is a popular spot and we’re working with community groups to ensure upcoming events, like the Mt Tarrengower Hill Climb, are not impacted during the construction works.”