NPWS hazard reduction burn at Sydney’s North Head

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) in conjunction with Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is planning a hazard reduction burn at North Head in Sydney Harbour National Park on Saturday 17 October.

Controlled burn by National Parks and Wildlife Service and NSW Rural Fire Service staff

NPWS Area Manager Chad Weston said the 8.7-hectare burn is planned for the northern side of the headland at Bluefish Point.

“Approximately 50 fire fighters will work together to implement this burn, with support from two helicopters for aerial observation and water bucketing capability,” Mr Weston said.

“Smoke may be visible from surrounding suburbs including Mosman, Manly, Balgowlah, Watsons Bay and possibly from Sydney CBD.

“Throughout the burn some sections of North Head will be closed, including Bluefish Drive and the ‘Avenue of Honour’ walking track.

“This burn is one of a number of burns planned for the coming weeks and people are remined to refrain from walking in this area for a few days after the burn and abide by all safety signage,” said Mr Weston.

People with asthma or those who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors.

The NPWS hazard reduction program for 2020 is focussed on essential burns to protect park neighbours, assets or significant habitat to ensure ongoing recovery of the wildlife impacted by the summer bushfires.

All hazard reduction burns over 50 hectares will be assessed by the NSW RFS in conjunction with NSW Health as required to ensure smoke impacts are minimised.

For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.

Details on this and other specific burns will be made available in advance on the Rural Fire Service website, ‘Fires Near Me’ app, and on NPWS Alerts website.

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