Hazard reduction burns for South East Forests National Park and Jervis Bay National Park
Smoke may be visible to members of the public in surrounding areas from hazard reduction burns on the south coast.
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is planning two hazard reduction burns in South East Forests National Park. Kellys Mountain is 355 hectares in size, and Pericoe is 800 hectares. Both hazard reduction burns are planned to commence on 15 March 2026, weather permitting. Due to the size of the areas to be treated, the burns will be undertaken over multiple days.
The planned burns will help to reduce overall fuel loads to improve protection for nearby private properties, the Nungatta Feral Predator Free Area, and will help to maintain fire regimes for biodiversity in the park.
These areas of the national park will be closed to the public while these burns are taking place and signage will be placed at trails that lead into the associated areas. There are currently other areas that are also closed for aerial pest control operations.
Smoke warning and traffic control will also be in place on Imlay Road as required. The park will be reopened once the burn areas are assessed as safe. Visitors must check NPWS Alerts for up to-date information on closures.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) are also intending to conduct a hazard reduction burn in Jervis Bay National Park on Monday, 16 March, weather permitting.
The 40ha burn is to be conducted within Jervis Bay National Park 1.3km west of Vincentia.
The burn will reduce naturally accumulated fuel loads to protect nearby residential areas and critical public infrastructure including the Vincentia Sewerage Treatment Facility to the north of the burn and Power Transmission Line to the east.
During the burn smoke may be visible from Vincentia and surrounding areas.
Local roads may also be impacted by smoke so motorists are advised to take care if there is reduced visibility due to smoke and drive to conditions.
People vulnerable to smoke are encouraged to remain indoors and keep their doors and windows closed to reduce exposure.
People with known health conditions can sign up to receive air quality reports, forecasts and alerts via email or SMS from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
For health information relating to smoke from bushfires and hazard reduction burns, visit NSW Health or Asthma Australia.
More information on hazard reduction activities is available at NSW Rural Fire Service and the NSW Government’s Hazards Near Me website and app.