The last day of March was the end of the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period in NSW. While spring was a busy period of the fire season, summer was relatively quiet, thanks to timely rainfall.
Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service, Rob Rogers, noted this season saw a resurgence in heightened fire danger, particularly in its initial stages, following three years of above-average rainfall.
‘RFS crews and other agencies responded to more than 5,480 bush and grass fires this season which burned more than 445,000 hectares,’ Commissioner Rogers said.
‘Tragically, we lost three RFS firefighters. Senior Deputy Captain John Holmes, Captain Leo Fransen and Group Captain Dale Bowles gave the ultimate sacrifice to selflessly protect communities across NSW.
‘They lost their lives in the service of others and our thoughts remain with their families and loved ones.’
Losses and rescues
A total of 29 homes, 142 outbuildings and hundreds of livestock were also lost, however hundreds more homes and buildings were saved due to the actions of firefighters and landholders.
While the BFDP may have officially ended, Commissioner Rogers said fire restrictions have been extended in two Local Government Areas due to local conditions – until 14 April in the Mid-Western LGA and 30 April in the Snowy Monaro LGA.
‘The RFS and its partner agencies also remain committed to extensive preparatory efforts ahead of next season, with hazard reduction work already underway across the state and more than 62,000 hectares treated since 1 July,’ he said.
‘It’s important to remember, fires can occur at any time of the year, so we urge people to keep their property prepared, have bush fire survival plans up to date and discuss them with their family and household.
‘I would also like to thank every one of our members for their ongoing commitment to prepare and protect communities across NSW,’ said Commissioner Rogers.
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