Warrumbungle National Park Fire Access and Fire Trail upgrade work completed
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) in collaboration with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) completed pre-certification inspections in late May of the Fire Access and Fire Trail (FAFT) upgrade works in Warrumbungle National Park to improve firefighter safety and efficiency when fighting fires.
This work is imperative as fire trails are critical for fire suppression and hazard reduction work but also provide essential access for conservation programs, heritage appreciation, visitor experience and connection of remote communities.
These FAFT upgrade works included upgrading 52km of strategic fire trails in Warrumbungle National Park to ensure they are fit for purpose and meet the RFS fire trail standards. Upgrades were also carried out on 7km of tactical trail network within the reserve.
Fire fighters can not only access more remote sections of the park more easily, but it is also much safer for them to do so, because of the installation of more signage, and the construction of extra turn-around points and passing bays.
Achieving a positive outcome from the pre-certification inspections demonstrates the success of the NPWS FAFT program and the positive collaboration between staff from NPWS and RFS Fire Trail Officers.
Certification must meet strict construction standards and take into consideration requirements outlined in the respective FAFT plan and endorsed by the local Bush Fire Management Committee comprising other land managers including NPWS, Local Land Services, Forestry Corporation of NSW, Crown Lands, shire councils, and local landholders.
The NPWS owns and manages more than 39,000 kilometres of roads and trails across more than 890 reserves and 90% of fire-prone land in NSW, with 13,089km of these classified as being of Strategic fire importance.
Within the Northern Inland Branch there are over 550km of fire trail awaiting certification or having met the current RFS fire trail standards, as part of the more than 2,200km of trails state-wide in this category.
Quotes attributable to Director Northern Inland Branch John Whittall:
"Upgrading these fire trails is a vital investment in the safety of our firefighters and the protection of local communities. These improvements ensure fire fighter crews can access remote areas quickly and safely during emergencies, which is crucial for effective fire management.
"Engaging local and regional contractors to complete these upgrades has directly supported the local economy. It’s rewarding to see vital fire management work also contribute to local jobs and businesses in the Warrumbungle area.
“Local RFS firefighters were able to drive the trails with ease and were happy to give their approval from an operational perspective.”
Quotes attributable to RFS District Manager, Superintendent Dez White:
"This project is a great example of collaboration between agencies and landowners. By meeting the rigorous certification standards under the Rural Fires Act, we’re ensuring that our fire trails are not only compliant but also strategically positioned to give firefighters the best chance to contain and manage bushfires."