The Southern Australian Seasonal Bushfire Outlook, released last month, predicted an “above normal” fire potential due to the strengthening El Nino and trend of declining rain in the cooler months.

It states drier conditions in key areas of the continent “that affect Victoria’s weather, when combined with the normal course of spring warming and increasing day length, lead to a strong likelihood the season will begin early”.

Idyllic countryside has before ignited into highly flammable bushland, the perfect environment for extreme fire zones, and will again.

It is a reality of living in Australia – tracts of lands are scorched and population centres can be ravaged and blackened.

As Melbourne ushers in its hottest grand final in some 30 years, and temperatures tip 30 degrees for the first time in months, it’s a pertinent reminder of preparedness and vigilance in the face of extreme risk.

This year it appears summer has sprung early – and, with it, the bushfire season.

The Country Fire Association and NSW Rural Fire Service, on Thursday, issued its annual safety message –urging responsible behaviour  around barbecues and campfires – ahead of a big sporting weekend.

It’s also high time for homeowners to clear around their houses, dispensing of winter growth and beginning to studiously plan for dangers ahead.

In such times, a well-prepared and drilled force, which has demonstrated time and time again its dedication to keeping our communities safe, can be the difference between small-scale fire damage and absolute devastation.

Volunteers, regular men and women, willing to put their lives on the line to ensure others’ safety, are the lifeblood of this effort.

Their individual acts of bravery, determination and resilience demonstrate we are a lucky community to have selfless people prepared to give up so much for the greater good.

The importance of vigilance cannot be understated.

Bushfires have no concern for state and territory borders. 

We must ensure we learn from past lessons to minimise our future risks.