Multiple fires are burning across the state of NSW and Queensland and residents are being asked to stay alert to any fires that might impact on them and their properties.
The Forestry Corporation that manages the state forests has now closed state forests on the north coast and northern tablelands.
‘There are many large dangerous fires moving across the landscape and we expect the high fire danger to continue for the foreseeable future,’ said Forestry Corporation of NSW’s senior manager forest stewardship Kathy Lyons.
All state forests from the north of Nabiac to the Queensland border and the northern tablelands will remain closed to the public until further notice due to the ongoing fire risk.
‘State forests that have been recently burnt will remain closed for some time due to the high risk of trees falling after fire,’ said Ms Lyons.
‘There is a very high risk to public safety, so do not enter these forests until further notice.
‘The landscape is incredibly dry and there are already extensive fires across the north coast, so conditions can change rapidly and there remains a continued heightened fire risk until we have substantial rain.
‘We encourage anyone planning to visit a State forest to check current fire danger and fire bans via the Rural Fire Service website and keep an eye on our website or facebookpage for information about closures.
‘Solid Fuel Fire Bans, which have been in place since 1 September and prohibit campfires and barbecues using wood, charcoal or other solid fuels, continue to apply every day. Campers are permitted to use gas stoves for cooking unless a total fire ban is declared.’
Monitor fires in you area
Residents of the Mid North Coast and Far North Coast regions are being urged to keep monitoring the status of bushfires in their area and to act on emergency updates when needed.
Emergency Operation Centres (EOCs) are operating across the Northern Region, incorporating representatives from NSW Police, RFS, NSW Fire and Rescue, NSW Health, local councils and other agencies.
Road closures
The Pacific Highway remains closed between Cundletown and Nabiac, with several other local roads closed due to fire activity. See the latest traffic information on https://www.livetraffic.com
The Public Information and Inquiry Centre (PIIC) remains open to assist members of the public in relation to bushfire information for the Northern Rivers, Clarence Valley, Mid North Coast, and Manning/Great Lakes areas.
The PIIC number is 1800 227 228.
Members of the public are reminded to delay all non-essential travel to, and within, fire-affected areas to assist emergency services.
Avoid damaged powerlines and be aware of the possibility of asbestos in fire-damaged properties.
Anyone in the bushfire-affected areas are urged to let their loved ones know they’re ok by registering online with the Red Cross’s Register.Find.Reunite. website https://register.redcross.org.au/
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