Hazard reduction burns completed at Bouddi

The National Parks and Wildlife Service conducted two hazard reduction burns in Bouddi National Park earlier this month.

A 5.25 hectare burn took place on Wednesday, April 4, from 10am to 6pm between Rocky Point Trail and private properties in Hardys Bay Pde, Hardys Bay.

A second 12.5 hectare burn took place on Thursday, April 5, between Hawke Head Dr and the northern end of the Killcare beach area at Killcare.

The burn commenced at approximately 10am on Thursday with crews continuing into the evening, finishing up on Friday.

National Parks and Wildlife Service regional manager Mr Tom Bagnat said the low intensity burns were undertaken to reduce fuel loads in the area and consolidate earlier burns.

"After all of the wet weather we've had we were keen to take advantage of every available window of opportunity that we could," Mr Bagnat said.

"Smoke from the burns may have impacted on the surrounding areas and we thank our neighbours for their understanding.

"Hawke Head Dr was closed for the duration of the burn and some surrounding streets in the Killcare area such as Grandview Pde, Patricia Place and Beach Dr, may have been affected by smoke," Mr Bagnat said.

During 2010-11, the National Parks and Wildlife Service completed 155 prescribed burns treating an area of more than 55976 hectares.

Hazard reduction burns are one of the many fire management tools used by fire-fighters.

Ongoing fire-fighter training, cyclical fire trial maintenance, equipment upgrades and community education are all elements of preparation for any fire season.

Media Releases, 3 and 4 Apr 2012

Emma Peterson, Office of Environment and Heritage