Grain growers are invited to a community chat in Esperance about how to prevent, prepare for and reduce the risk of harvest fires.
The chat will take place next Friday and close off a series of similar conversations that aim to curb the rising number of harvest fires across southern WA.
There were more than 170 fires linked to harvesting operations and in crops, including stubble, during the 2025-26 grain harvest season — a 26 per cent increase compared to the 2024-25 season.
The harvest fire conversation will be led by Shire of Morawa president Karen Chappel, with support from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and local governments.
It will focus on prevention, preparedness and practical solutions to reduce fire risk across key grain-growing regions.
Sessions have already taken place in Geraldton, Dalwallinu, Merredin, and Katanning.
Farmers and community members are encouraged to come along, share their lived experience and discuss topics such as machinery, conditions, and workforce pressures.
The final harvest fire conversation will be on Friday, July 24 from 9.30am at Esperance Bay Yacht Club.
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