Authorities need to control fireworks

Authorities including WorkSafe and local government need to take stronger action in approving fireworks for private functions, particularly in rural areas.

A local resident has complained to The Gazette about fireworks at a private party which frightened domestic pets, cattle, horses and sheep at neighbouring properties.

The resident, who did not wish to be named, said Baw Baw Shire was not proactive in dealing with the issue. Neither the shire or WorkSafe wanted to take any responsibility until considerable pressure was applied..

She said private fireworks should be banned in rural areas because of the risk to livestock. "At a minimum the shire should impose a mandatory permit with notice and distance safeguards. If other local governments do it, why can Baw Baw not learn," she asked.

When the resident complained she said the shire and WorkSafe dodged her questions and did not have clear answers.

The resident said under current regulations the only requirement was that the fireworks were prepared and discharged by a qualified and authorised pyrotechnician.

The pyrotechnician is expected to notify the relevant authorities, including the shire, at least seven days before the event.

The notice must include the address of the event.

The resident said after she complained she was advised neither WorkSafe, the shire or the CFA had been notified.

"There seems to be an attitude that as long as the pyrotechnician is registered they can do much as they like," she said.

Baw Baw Shire Council's website states that it does not approve or issue permits for fireworks.

The website says if people are running an event they need to ensure that any contractor hired holds a current pyrotechnician licence from WorkSafe Victoria and liability insurance cover.

The pyrotechnics contractor is responsible for completing a 'Notification of Intention to Discharge Fireworks'.

This is a WorkSafe Victoria form and requires that notification is sent to: Victorian WorkCover Authority, the Country Fire Authority and Baw Baw Shire Council.

"We recommend that the contractor you engage be a member of the Australian Pyrotechnics Association or the Pyrotechnics Industry Association of Australia," the website says.

The resident added that while some neighbours were notified others were not. "It was very random," she said.

"Most locals, many of whom are older, preferred to remain silent because of potential neighbourhood backlash."

The resident also was concerned that instead of addressing her complaint there were no sanctions imposed, with the Shire was hiding behind a privacy policy that is in direct contrast to its promotion of transparency about governance and policy.

The resident said she had discussed the issue with Member for Narracan Gary Blackwood who was keen to take it further in relation to State Government responsibilities and regulations.