VICTORIAN Minister for Education, Bronwyn Pike says the State Government has identified fire refuges in 27 schools across Victoria around which vegetation needs to be cleared.
According to the Minister, trees and hazardous vegetation surround the identified fire refuges and will be cleared to allow for their use as a last resort shelter for students and staff.
The Minister says the State Government recognised the significance and value of the trees to school landscapes but the loss is outweighed by the need to protect the safety of students and staff.
Pike says with the bushfire season is 42 days away, authorities will undertake clearing works during the school holidays which begins 21 September. Trees and vegetation will be removed from these sites and the work finished by the time students return to school.
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