Fire bans in national parks across the Central Coast and Hunter region

Now the summer holidays are here, visitors to national parks in the Hunter Central Coast area are reminded park fire bans are now in place to help reduce the risk of bushfire.

Fire bans are currently in place in parks including Brisbane Waters, Lake Munmorah National Park, Myall Lakes National Park, Washpools campground in Towarri National Park, the Watagans and Dingo Tops.

This means campfires and solid fuel (wood, heat beads, charcoal, briquettes, hexamine) barbecues and stoves are banned. However, gas and electric barbecues and cookers can be used with caution.

These park fire bans were put in place from 23 December until conditions change.

The Hunter Central Coast region is experiencing prolonged dry conditions where campfires during hot dry weather could become a bushfire threat to visitors and neighbouring communities.

Visitors are also reminded on days where a Total Fire Ban is declared, no fires at all are permitted out in the open – this includes gas and electric barbecues.

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is advising visitors planning a trip to one of our parks these holidays to check the NPWS Alerts page for up-to-date information on park fire bans or any other closures.

For more information on all fire bans visit the NSW Rural Fire Service website or download Hazards Near Me app.

Quotes attributed to NPWS Hunter Central Coast Director, Kylie Yeend:

“Bushland areas throughout the Central Coast and Hunter region are currently very dry. This has resulted in some very intense and challenging fires across our region in recent weeks.

“When combined with hot, dry weather, campfires can pose a serious risk for new ignitions. Under such dry conditions, bushfires can spread very easily from the sparks of a campfire.

“The bans are temporarily in place to help protect park visitors and communities from the threat of bushfire during this elevated fire danger.

“If you do see a fire, always call Triple Zero immediately.”