State forests in the Central Tablelands region will be closed from midnight Wednesday 18 December until further notice due to expected severe fire weather.

Forests closed due to direct impact by fire are Gurnang, Newnes and Ben Bullen State Forests. The remainder of the region’s State forests are also being closed as a precautionary measure.

These are additional to existing longer-term closures in selected State forests across NSW.

Visitors are asked to stay out of closed forests for their safety, said Forestry Corporation of NSW’s Stewardship Coordinator, Melanie Klootwijk.

“These forests are closed until further notice due to the severe fire danger rating for these areas,” Ms Klootwijk said.

“The landscape is incredibly dry, so conditions can change rapidly.

“We are currently dealing with a number of fires in or threatening the State forest, such as Gospers Mountain and Green Wattle Creek. With resources already stretched any new ignitions could be disastrous.”

People should also check www.forestrycorporation.com.au for current forest closures before planning any travel.

Visitors are also reminded to check the Rural Fire Service website and Fires Near Me app for current fire danger ratings and conditions.

“We encourage anyone planning to visit a State forest to change their plans, check current fire danger and fire bans via the Rural Fire Service website and Fires Near Me app, and keep an eye on our website or Facebook page for information about closures,” Ms Klootwijk said.

Solid Fuel Fire Bans, which have been in place since 1 September and prohibit campfires and barbecues using wood, charcoal or other solid fuels, continue to apply every day.

Please refer to the Forestry Corporation website for the full list of current forest closures.

Media contact: Rod Campbell 0428 058 549