Smoke around the Central Coast on Sunday hazard reduction burn in Brisbane Water National Park

Media release: 8 August 2014

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is planning a hazard reduction burn in Brisbane Water National Park near Woy Woy Bay on Sunday 10^th August.

NPWS Regional Manager Geoff Luscombe said the low intensity burn is being undertaken to reduce fuel loads in the area.

“The 60 hectare burn will take place west of Koolewong Fire Trail and east of Woy Woy Bay,” Mr Luscombe said.

“The burn will commence at approximately 10 am with crews continuing into the evening, finishing up when required, weather permitting.

“Smoke from the burn may impact on the area and we thank our neighbours for their understanding.

During the burn the area will be closed to visitors including Koolewong Fire Trail

Smoke may affect residents of Koolewong, Woy Woy, Woy Woy Bay, Phegans Bay and Horsfield Bay as well as Brisbane Water Drive and Glenrock Parade.

“Drivers in particular are warned to take care and people with asthma or who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors.”

This hazard reduction burn is part of the NSW Government’s $62.5 million package to boost bushfire preparedness and double hazard reduction in the State’s national parks where conditions allow.

With the assistance of the Enhanced Bushfire Management Program, NPWS plans to burn an average of over 135,000 hectares per year, through more than 800 individual hazard reduction activities.

For more information on planned hazard reduction burns, visit the Rural Fire Service website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au .

Contact: Lawrence Orel