Property owners, landlords and renters are invited to join local fire and land management experts for a practical evening focused on bushfire preparedness and safer backyard burning.
Backyard Burning:101 will be held from 5:30pm to 8pm on Friday 14 August 2026 at Cooktown Shire Hall, followed by a free community BBQ cooked by local Rural Fire Brigades.
The session will bring together representatives from Queensland Fire Department, South Cape York Catchments, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, and local Rural Fire Brigades.
Community members will hear practical advice about preparing homes and properties for bushfire season, maintaining firebreaks, reducing fuel loads and making properties more resilient.
The evening will also cover the rules around burning off, including when permits may be required, who to contact, how to prepare for a burn and important seasonal dates.
Invited Aboriginal Rangers will share information about traditional, cultural and cool burning practices and their role in caring for Country and managing fire.
There will be an opportunity to ask questions during the session, as well as an information stall where attendees can collect resources and speak directly with representatives.
Event details
What: Backyard Burn Basics
When: Friday 14 August, 5.30pm–8pm
Where: Cooktown Shire Hall
Cost: Free
Bookings: Essential
A free community BBQ will be provided by local Rural Fire Brigades.
Whether you own your home, rent, manage an investment property or look after a larger block, this is an opportunity to get clear, practical advice before bushfire season.
Assistance provided by the Australian and Queensland governments through the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
Although funding for this product has been provided by both the Australian and Queensland Governments, the material contained herein does not necessarily represent the views of either Government.