Yiraaldiya National Park Hazard Reduction Burn

National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) in conjunction with NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) and Fire and Rescue (FRNSW) is planning a hazard reduction burn for Yiraaldiya National Park, Shalvey, in western Sydney from Friday 20 October, weather permitting.

NPWS Area Manager Katie Littlejohn said the 63 hectare burn in Yiraaldiya National Park is occurring in October to take advantage of suitable weather. “This burn will help protect the communities surrounding the national park, Shalvey and Marsden Park, and reduce the risk of wildfire to surrounding properties,” Ms Littlejohn said.

“The burn is due to begin at about 9 am and motorists along surrounding streets including Richmond Road, Glengarrie Road, South Street and Luxford Road in Marsden Park and Shalvey are reminded to beware of potential smoke hazard, drive to conditions and obey any traffic control that may be in place.

“Public access to the national park including all walking tracks will be closed during the burning operations.

“Smoke from the burn program may be visible and may also be evident in local communities depending on wind direction.

“People with asthma or those who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors.”

The NPWS hazard reduction program for 2023 is focused on essential burns to protect both park neighbours, assets and park values.

All burns across New South Wales will continue to be coordinated with the RFS and FRNSW to ensure the impact on the community, including from smoke, is assessed at a regional level.

Details on specific burns will be made available in advance on the Rural Fire Service website, ‘Hazards Near Me’ app, and on the NPWS Alerts website.

All hazard reduction burns over 50 hectares will be assessed by the RFS in conjunction with NSW Health as required to ensure smoke impacts are minimised.

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

For up-to-date information on these, and other, planned hazard reduction activities, visit the Rural Fire Service.