Melbourne Homes Engulfed by Tumbleweed Invasion

Tumbleweeds originating from overgrown private properties are increasingly causing issues for residents in Melbourne's outer west, forming a substantial fire hazard. The City of Melton has recorded 44 requests for tumbleweed cleanup in the current financial year, a figure more than double any previous year since data collection began four years ago. Suburbs such as Hillside, Aintree, Eynesbury, and Kurunjang have been warned of potential future events.

Residents describe the tumbleweeds as creating metres of tinder-dry fuel that accumulates against homes and fences. One resident expressed significant anxiety during hot weather due to the fire potential. This problem has notably worsened this summer for some, with invasions occurring on a scale not previously experienced. A past event in Hillside in December 2020 saw an estate buried under a large volume of this dry grass.

Experts suggest the invasive grass is likely Hillman's panic, introduced from Texas. This grass can be toxic to livestock and spreads rapidly. Its proliferation is linked to improper paddock maintenance, allowing the grass to seed and disperse. The City of Melton acknowledges the issue and implements fire prevention programs and roadside slashing to mitigate the risk. Council workers responded to a recent event on January 9, clearing tumbleweed from affected homes within two days.