Mild weather conditions brought a timely end to the Bush Fire Danger Period (BFDP) this year for 36 NSW local government areas including Walgett, Coonamble, Warren, and Bogan shires.

The wet weather of the past two days has added a punctuation mark to the official end of bushfire season

“Over the last couple of months, we’ve seen milder conditions, so we have decided to not extend the BFDP from here,” Regional Fire Safety (RFS) District Coordinator Greg Cassidy told the Western Plains App.   

Cassidy applauded the community for upholding fire safety measures, "A lot of people within the region are very responsible with their burning."

Since 1 April, residents no longer need to apply for a fire permit before burning.

However, Cassidy reminds landholders across the western plains that they are still required to notify the RFS prior to lighting a fire.

 “It is still the responsibility of residents to notify the RFS and their neighbours 24 hours before conducting a burn on their property.”   

Despite the BFDP starting one month early on 1 September 2023 due to excessive dry grass and fire fuel, the RFS has not had to suspend any fire permits since Christmas.  

Grassfire near Walgett in September 2022.

The RFS is now focussing on daily operations and meeting their hazard reduction goals.

“We have completed a couple in the Coonamble and Wagga shires within the last few months,” Cassidy said.  

The District Coordinator reminded residents to take precautions before lighting a fire.

“Make sure the burning is still in a contained area and that equipment is on hand to contain the fire if it does get out of hand,” Cassidy cautioned.

"I urge all residents to take the threat of bushfire seriously and to prepare their families and home now.

"The first thing you should do though is update your bush fire survival plan and discuss it with your household," Inspector Jillian Butler added. 

Residents can notify the RFS about any burning plans on their website.