Fire crews work around the clock to control blaze

Hundreds of Rural Fire Service personnel have worked around the clock to control a bush fire in Kenna gully, near Upper Maules Creek Road.

This week’s warmer weather has crews on high alert, should fire activity pick up at the scene.

The fire was brought under control on Monday, with crews continuing to work to ensure the blaze is extinguished.

On-the-ground personnel have been supported by aircraft in controlling the fire.

The blaze started last Tuesday, February 28, by a lightning strike.

Mount Kaputar National Park bore the brunt of the 4500 hectares burnt in almost a week, with the fire encroaching on to privately-owned land.

RFS public information officer Steve Kada said crews had been well-supported by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Both services have deployed personnel from across the state to Narrabri.

Personnel from as far away as Sydney, the Central Coast, the Hunter Valley and Mid Coast have responded to the blaze in addition to the enduring efforts of local RFS crews.

“It has definitely been a real team effort,” Mr Kada said.

Local aircraft has been used as part of the aerial response, in addition to aircraft from Sydney including the Chinook which is on contract to the RFS from the United States.

On Monday, 15 trucks remained out at the fire scene with 50 field personnel to ensure the blaze remains under control during this week’s predicted warmer, hazardous conditions.

Mr Kada said aircraft continue to be used as part of the monitoring efforts.

The Mount Kaputar National Park terrain, coupled with the distance, has proved a challenge for firefighting crews.

“The terrain is very rugged and it’s a remote location,” Mr Kada said.

Mr Kada said the bush fire posed an isolated threat to nearby properties, and the fire’s location could have posed a concern for nearby communities.

This week’s unfavourable weather conditions continue to be of concern to the RFS, however, Mr Kada assured residents the service is ready to respond with any resources necessary should fire activity pick up.

“I encourage people to keep abreast of the situation, with the weather forecast,” he said.

“Make sure you know what to do if something does change.

“Everyone in the community should have a plan in this situation.”

Hazardous weather conditions are expected to be experienced until later this week, before temperatures start to drop from Thursday.

Residents are encouraged to have a bush fire safety plan and ensure their property is fire ready.

People are encouraged to download the Hazards Near Me app to have the latest fire warnings at their fingertips.