Bushfires NT is responding to a large bushfire burning east of Tennant Creek in the Barkly region.
Fire crews are working with landholders to install containment lines in the north, east and south of the fire with the western flank burning into an area burnt in 2025.
At this stage, there is no immediate threat to Tennant Creek. However, residents across the Barkly region can expect significant smoke impacts over coming days, when a forecast south easterly wind change occurs from Friday evening.
Bushfires NT urges residents to stay informed and remain aware of changing conditions.
Incident Controller Nathaniel Staniford said crews were maintaining close oversight of the fire and monitoring conditions across the region.
“Our crews are actively responding to the situation and gathering information to support operational decision-making,” Mr Staniford said.
“While there is currently no immediate threat to Tennant Creek, conditions can change quickly and we are asking residents to remain informed and prepared.”
NT Fire and Emergency Services is operating emergency drones to assist with fire mapping, reconnaissance and situational awareness. Community members are reminded not to fly private drones near bushfire incidents, as they can interfere with emergency operations and create safety risks for response crews.
Smoke may impact health
Smoke from bushfires can travel considerable distances and may affect communities well away from the fire ground.
Smoke can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and may cause coughing, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. People most at risk include:
Older peopleYoung children and infantsPregnant womenPeople with asthma or other respiratory conditionsPeople with heart disease
Residents experiencing smoke impacts are encouraged to:
Stay indoors where possible and keep windows and doors closed.Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.Follow their health management plan if they have asthma or another respiratory condition.Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or become severe.
Be prepared
While the fire is not currently threatening populated areas, conditions can change quickly.
Bushfires NT encourages residents, businesses and pastoralists to:
Review your Bushfire Survival Plan, and discuss with your household:
herePrepare equipment and resources needed to respond to changing conditions.Check and maintain fire breaks where appropriate.Monitor official information sources for updates, including SecureNT: here
“Now is the time for residents to review their bushfire plans and ensure they know what actions they would take should conditions change,” Mr Staniford said.
Stay informed
Residents should monitor:
SecureNTBushfires NT social media channelsABC Local Radio
