Fire closes parts of Carrington Falls

Media release: 30 May 2016

Sections of the popular Carrington Falls visitor precinct in Budderoo National Park are closed while the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) repairs lookouts and structures damaged by a bushfire last week.

Area Manager, Allan Norman said that NPWS wishes to minimise inconvenience to park visitors and has reopened a number of facilities at Carrington Falls but other facilities remain closed for visitor safety.

"Visitor facilities that have now been re-opened include the Carrington Falls camping area, tracks to Blue Pool, Nellies Glen, Warris' Chair and Missingham lookouts," Mr Norman said.

"The areas remaining closed include the main Carrington Falls Lookout, the Carrington Falls Picnic Area at Thomas Place, the Carrington Falls Loop Track, Izzards Lookout and Track and Stevos Track.

"Visitors are asked to avoid the closed sections and adhere to signage and barriers prohibiting access while repairs are underway.

"The fire damaged structures, steps and safety fencing at the main lookout so it is extremely dangerous to enter the closed area.

"The fire also damaged trees, so tree falls and branch drops are being experienced and are expected to continue for some time," Mr Norman said.

Repairs to the lookout and other structures are being organised following assessment by engineers and are expected to take a number of months.

Visitors wanting to experience the Southern Highlands' waterfalls and escarpments are encouraged to visit Belmore Falls near Robertson, the impressive Fitzroy Falls or the spectacular vistas in Morton National Park at Bundanoon.

For more information on the park closure or alternative day use and camping areas please visit the NSW National Parks website, or call the Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre on 4887 7270.

Contact: Sarah Scroope