High-tech fire power reduces bushfire risk in Moreton Bay

Published 20 October 2025

• City of Moreton Bay has introduced a cutting-edge technology to its planned burns program
• Aerial incendiary drones offer a safer, accurate and more cost-effective way to carry out planned burn in difficult terrain
• Residents and businesses are urged to plan, prepare and protect their homes and loved ones this bushfire season

A rotary wing revolution has taken off at City of Moreton Bay, helping combat the threat of bushfires as south-east Queensland swelters under a soaring heatwave.

Contracted by Council, specialised aerial incendiary drones have been hard at work over the last few months, flying into areas previously deemed inaccessible by foot or vehicle in order to help fire management crews conduct hazard reduction burns.

The drones drop small incendiary pellets from above, allowing crews to carry out planned burns with greater precision and safety across challenging terrains.

Mayor Peter Flannery said the new technology had made a positive impact to Council’s planned burns program.

“We’ve taken action to reduce fuel loads and lessen the risk of major bushfires,” he said.

 “Our city spans everything from mountain ranges to sandy beaches, and this drone technology has allowed us to access areas that vehicles and even people sometimes can’t reach.

“Within seconds of being dropped the capsule bursts into flame, igniting the surrounding vegetation to begin a cooler, controlled burn.

“The drones are a more compact, cost-effective, and safer alternative to helicopters and are helping to keep our fire crews safe while increasing the number of locations where burns can take place.”

Mayor Flannery said this year City of Moreton Bay had used this method, which had already helped Council scale up hazard reduction efforts prior to bushfire season starting.

“In recent months, we’ve completed successful planned burns across several locations using this technology, including 19 hectares in Samford,” he said.

Mayor Flannery said the drone’s key advantage in reaching previously inaccessible areas also helped Council better protect nearby communities.

“The use of aerial incendiaries is a well-tested and proven method and City of Moreton Bay is one of the few local governments leading the way by incorporating this innovation into our bushfire management work,” he said.

“At the same time, we’re also expanding our internal drone capability to support safety and environmental monitoring before, during and after planned burns. These drones provide thermal imaging and real-time oversight for fire crews on the ground, with all operations strictly aligned to CASA legislation and operational standards.”

Mayor Flannery said the message to residents was simple during bushfire season - “we’re preparing so you should be too”.

“Now’s the perfect time to clean up your yards, make sure you have a bushfire survival plan and sign up to MoretonAlert for alerts about planned burns in your area,” he said.

“Having a plan can save your life. It’s the most important step you can take to protect yourself, your family, and your home.”

Those with asthma or respiratory issues are advised stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed while planned burns are being conducted.

For more information on upcoming planned burns in the City of Moreton Bay, head to https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Disaster-Management/Planned-Burns#schedule

For more information on how to prepare for bushfires click https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Disaster-Management/Before-a-Disaster/Bushfire