Ruffy Rebuilds with Australian Fire Protection Technology

In January, bushfire tore through Ruffy in northeast Victoria, destroying more than 30 homes along with sheds, livestock and 1,200 power poles. Seven months on, the town is rebuilding - but this time with mitigation built into the recovery rather than left to the next emergency.

As reported by 10 News, the community is turning to Firecoat, an Australian-developed protective coating manufactured by Flame Security International. When exposed to flame, Firecoat undergoes a chemical reaction that forms a thick insulating layer, slowing fire spread and shielding the substrate beneath. For residents, it means leaving earlier with better odds their home is still standing when they return.

Victoria's 2026 bushfire inquiry reported last week, finding that warnings went unheeded, communities entered the fire season underprepared, and the loss of critical infrastructure caused communication breakdowns that undermined the state's emergency response. With Europe and parts of the United States currently battling fires driven by record heat, the message for Australian councils, utilities and asset owners is straightforward - inquiry recommendations protect nothing until they are acted on.

Risk-e Business Consultants works with Flame Security International to bring Firecoat and related fire protection products to Australian organisations, alongside our emergency management planning, training and exercise services. If you are responsible for assets in a bushfire-prone area and want to understand what passive protection can do before the next season, get in touch.