State forests in the Lower Hunter and Central Coast areas will be closed for one day on Friday 6 December 2019 due to expected severe fire weather.

Forests affected by the one-day closure are Olney, Ourimbah, Pokolbin, Heaton, Watagan, Wyong, Awaba and Strickland State Forests.

These are additional to existing longer term closures in some forests in these areas.

Visitors are asked to stay out of closed forests for their safety, said Forestry Corporation of NSW Senior Stewardship Manager, Kathy Lyons.

“These forests are closed for one day due to the severe fire danger rating for these areas,” Ms Lyons said.

The landscape is incredibly dry and there are already extensive fires, so conditions can change rapidly. There remains a continued heightened fire risk until we have substantial rain.

“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.

“Forests that have been recently burnt will also remain closed for some time due to the high risk of trees falling after fire.

“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. Campers are permitted to use gas stoves for cooking unless a total fire ban is declared.”

Visitors are asked to check the Rural Fire Service website and Fires Near Me app for current fire danger ratings and conditions. People should also check www.forestrycorporation.com.au for current forest closures before planning any travel.

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

Media contact: Rod Campbell 0428058549