Disgust at fire vandals

By Ed Merrison
KALLISTA Fire Brigade members were left fuming after their fire indicator board was removed last week.
Kallista CFA first lieutenant Jim Paxton found the sign unbolted, back to front and leaning against its post about 5.30am on Thursday, 23 November.
The sign stands near the Kallista roundabout to warn people of the degree of fire danger in the hills.
Mr Paxton did not know whether somebody had tried to steal the sign, which is made of aluminium and weighs around 50 kilograms, or whether it had been taken down as a prank.
The sign, which had never previously been vandalised in Mr Paxton’s 10 years with the brigade, has also been defaced with a graffiti tag.
“I find it disheartening,” Mr Paxton said.
“We’ve had a sign on that corner for many years to advise the community that fire restrictions are on.”
Kallista CFA captain Peter Kueffer, who was disgusted when the brigade’s Christmas tree and lights were stolen in January, said the removal of the sign could have had serious implications.
“I just think it’s outrageous.
“It’s there for the community to keep them informed of the level of fire risk so residents can take appropriate action,” he said.
CFA members put the sign back in place on Sunday.
Meanwhile, several other brigades in the hills will be able to notify the public of fire danger levels thanks to a Community Bank initiative.
A meeting with Olinda Fire Brigade led to the Upwey, Belgrave and Cockatoo-Gembrook bank branches to donate more than $5500 worth of safety signs to 13 brigades.
Community Bank chairman and Upwey CFA captain Peter Marke said public education and awareness were vital during the fire season.
“As a board, we encourage other community groups to come forward with ideas for ways we can assist to make Upwey and its surrounding region an even better place to live,” he said.