Burn-off threatens Grampians grape harvest: Helper

THERE are fears this year's grape harvest in the Pyrenees and Grampians regions will be threatened by planned controlled burn-offs as the state government refuses to call off plans.

Member for Ripon Joe Helper said the Baillieu government needed to think very carefully before proceeding with the planned controlled burns.

"The government needs to strike a balance between the legitimate need for fuel reduction burns and the future of an industry of statewide significance," Mr Helper said.

He said the government had a duty of care to an industry that was vital to the social and economic well-being of the Grampians and Pyrenees regions.

The Department of Sustainability and Environment had announced a number of planned fuel reduction burns in the Pyrenees and Grampians regions in the immediate future.

Mr Helper said he had reports that some growers had already lost their total income for the year.

The growers fear further losses in income and employment opportunities as wineries reject all grapes with suspected smoke taint.

There are also concerns of reduced spending in the local community and that some businesses will face bankruptcy.

Minister for Environment and Climate Change Ryan Smith said the Baillieu government was committed to implementing all the recommendations of the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission which included the significant increase in the amount of bushfire fuel burnt each year.

"The previous Labor Government, of which Joe Helper was a part, did not do the progressive work that was needed and this systematic disregard has left us to play catch-up on the backlog," Mr Smith said.

He said his government representatives and fire officials had been in consultation with the Pyrenees community, specifically local winegrowers, about planned burns and that dialogue would continue.

"We have only very brief windows of opportunity to safely and effectively conduct planned burns.

"One of those windows is now in the Pyrenees region," he said.