Community urged to act early and stay fire wise

With October fast approaching, the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA) District is gearing up for the official start of the Bush Fire Danger Period — and local fire authorities are calling on residents to act now.

From October 1, Fire Permits will be required across the MIA District, which covers Hay, Griffith, Leeton, Narrandera, Murrumbidgee and Carrathool Local Government Areas. The MIA Rural Fire Service (RFS) is urging residents to complete planned burns — such as clearing fallen branches, pruning gardens, or reducing weeds and grasses — before the permit season begins.

“Now is the time to start burning,” the MIA RFS warns. “A reminder that notifying both the RFS and your neighbours of planned burns at least 24 hours in advance is mandatory, with fines of $1100 applying for failure to notify.”

Notifications can be made online at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify or by calling the MIA District Office on 02 6966 7800 during business hours.

Preparing for a High-Risk Season

Hay HQ Group Captain Neil Headon says that while conditions may appear safe now, the combination of lush spring growth and a predicted dry summer is cause for concern.

“Even though everything is green and damp, now is the time to get ready for the upcoming bushfire season,” he said. “The forecast points to a wet spring, but that will be followed by a hot, dry summer with storms and high winds that could produce fast-moving fires.”

Last season saw multiple ignitions sparked by storms, and this year could be no different. Headon advises landholders to:

• Establish and maintain firebreaks through ploughing, grading or spraying.
• Graze or clear around homesteads, sheds and haystacks.
• Service firefighting equipment, ensuring pumps, tanks, hoses and nozzles are in working order.
• Mark static water supplies with RFS signage to make them easy for crews to locate.
• Update Farm Fire Plans and Bushfire Survival Plans so all family members know what to do.
• Wear protective clothing made from cotton or wool and check insurance coverage.

“Be fire wise around the home and farm,” he added.

“Check vehicles and machinery for grass build-up, keep areas around power poles clear, and always carry extinguishers.”

Volunteers Needed in Hay

Alongside physical preparation, people power remains a crucial factor. The Hay Headquarters Brigade, which provides key backup and resources across the shire, is calling for urgent new members.

“Like many other volunteer organisations, our numbers are declining due to age, family and work commitments,” Brigade Secretary Neil Headon said. “We are urgently seeking new members. You can give as much or as little time as you can provide.”

Not all roles involve frontline firefighting. Volunteers are also needed to support crews with food, water and equipment. Training and protective gear are supplied free of charge.

For more information or to join, locals are encouraged to contact Captain Jesse Thomson or Secretary Neil Headon (0428 385 449) directly, or apply online via the RFS website. Brigade Contact -  6993 4213

The Bottom Line

With Fire Permits set to begin on October 1, the message from the RFS is clear: prepare early, reduce risks, and consider joining your local brigade.

As Headon summed up:

“All large fires started out as small ones. The quicker we can respond, the better chance we have of protecting our community.”