Martin Riddle writes: 

'The tn19 contingency planning group met at 10am this morning and agreed the following:  

Yesterday the bushfire warning for Franklin was elevated from ‘Advice’ to ‘Watch and Act’ with residents told to enact their Bushfire Plan, and non-residents told to stay away from Franklin. Communities within a few kilometres of Franklin are at the higher alert level of ‘Emergency’ and were door- knocked by police last night and asked to leave. The good news is that, as of this morning, there has been no direct impact on any township. Weather conditions are unlikely to change significantly for the next few days and the community has been advised not to become complacent. Official advice is, if you don't live near Franklin , stay away. 

While it would be possible to re-route the Raid to avoid high risk locations it is not reasonable to ask our local support volunteers to leave their families and properties vulnerable at this time. We must also consider whether it is responsible to embark on an activity (the Raid) which has the potential to call on the emergency services at a time when their resources are directed towards existing threats to lives and property. Under these circumstances our only option is to call off the Raid. 

We are currently looking at alternative activities on the water with the Raid boats, possibly including day sails from Franklin or another location. We are also considering re- scheduling/re-locating the Welcome Dinner and possibly continuing to provide meals for participants?? We will keep you informed as ideas develop. 

We realise that this is both disappointing and disruptive particularly for people traveling from interstate and overseas, however, we have been heartened by the many understanding and supportive messages we have received from participants – thank-you.