NPWS hazard reduction burn planned for Athol Hall, Mosman

Media release: 15 August 2017

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) will be undertaking a hazard reduction burn in Sydney Harbour National Park on 15 August near Mosman.

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Director Deon van Rensburg said the small but visible burn is planned near Athol Hall at Bradleys Head to protect property in the area including Athol Hall itself and Taronga Zoo, and to lower the risk of wildfires being able to spread in the area.

"The 4.2 hectare burn is a joint operation between NPWS and the RFS, and is likely to create smoke that's visible from the CBD and Sydney Harbour," Mr van Rensburg said.

"Road closures will affect Bradleys Head Road south of Athol Wharf Road."

NSW Health issued advice for people with asthma and those susceptible to respiratory problems yesterday which included staying indoors, closing windows and doors and following their health plan.

People with known health conditions should sign up to get air quality reports, forecasts and alerts via email or SMS and check the NSW Rural Fire Service website for advice and for regular updates on planned burns.

NPWS conducts controlled burns for a range of purposes including asset protection, strategic fire control, maintenance of biodiversity and research across NSW each year, many with assistance from the Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW. They are part of the NSW Government's six-year $76 million package to boost bushfire preparedness and double hazard reduction in the State's national parks.

This burn is one of many hazard reduction operations currently underway across Sydney. For more information on all burns visit: NSW Rural Fire Service or download the RFS 'Fires Near Me' app.

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

Contact: OEH Public Affairs